They went to Capernaum, and when the Sabbath came, Jesus went into the synagogue and began to teach.
The people were amazed at his teaching, because he taught them as one who had authority, not as the teachers of the law.
Just then a man in their synagogue who was possessed by an impure spirit cried out, “What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God!”
“Be quiet!” said Jesus sternly. “Come out of him!”
The impure spirit shook the man violently and came out of him with a shriek.
The people were all so amazed that they asked each other, “What is this? A new teaching—and with authority! He even gives orders to impure spirits and they obey him.”
News about him spread quickly over the whole region of Galilee.
Mark 1:21–28
In the very first chapter of Mark, we are introduced to a story of Jesus casting out a demon in Capernaum. An important display of his power, no doubt. But I’ve often thought the story was about more than a demon-possessed man being healed.
It is a story that John Mark wanted us to read at the very beginning of his book. Why? Because there is a theme that runs through this story—a theme that can still inspire us today: There is truth and authority contained in Jesus’s words.
Look at how the story unfolds. Mark begins by telling us that when Jesus began teaching in the synagogue, the people were amazed because he taught with authority. His words carried life and truth.
While he is teaching “with authority,” a man who is possessed by an evil spirit confronts him. Jesus responds with words: “Be quiet. Come out of him.” And the demon is forced to obey. Jesus’s words hold not just authority, but power.
The people are stunned. And again they say it: “What is this? A new teaching—and with authority!” The Word of Christ had such power that even impure spirits were driven out at the sound of it.
It’s interesting to notice what happens next. The people begin to talk about Jesus. Word spreads quickly throughout the region. But it wasn’t just the miracle that stirred them—they again draw attention to his “new teaching with authority.”
Here’s the amazing thing: that same power and authority are available to us today in the pages of Scripture.
Back in Mark 1, the men and women had to be in the synagogue on that day in order to hear the Words and teaching of Jesus. But you and I have access to his words every single day. On our shelves, in our pockets, in our homes—we can open the Word of God anytime we want.
If the words of Jesus carry the power to silence demons, change hearts, and amaze crowds, then they can guide our lives today. They can strengthen us. They can encourage us. They can change us. They have the power and authority to overcome whatever battle we are facing today.
The words of Jesus are worthy of our focus. Make time for them each day.
Prayer
Jesus, your words carry authority, truth, and power. Help me to see them and treat them that way. Give me a hunger and thirst for your teaching, and a heart that makes time to listen. Amen.