Jesus was teaching in Capernaum’s synagogue on the Sabbath. His teaching’s authority amazed the people. However, one person in the audience seemed tormented by Jesus; his authority and his teaching. It appeared that he did not like Jesus at all. However, it was not the man who objected to Jesus. Rather, the demon, an evil spirit possessing the man, knowing who Jesus was, despised Jesus.
The unclean spirit’s message was more than disruptive. The evil spirit presented lies about Jesus and Jesus’ intent in his teaching. Furthermore, the demon revealed who Jesus was: the Holy One of God. (33-34).
Jesus told the unclean spirit to be quiet and come out of the man with great authority (35-36).
Neither Luke nor Mark tells what happened to the man after this. However, we are told of what Jesus did with some other people whom Jesus freed from demon possession. He treated them with respect and dignity, giving them direction and purpose. Some he commanded to follow him. Others he commanded to tell others what God did for him.
Some of Jesus’ disciples are given the gift of distinguishing demon possession and even given the authority to drive them out. Others have the gift of compassion, patience, and empathy. Others have been given the gift of teaching with authority. No matter which or even if all these we are given, we serve in humility and love. The servant of Jesus who, in their heart, believes they control the narrative, has made the first prideful fall.
