Jesus rebuked the evil (unclean, unholy) spirit. Jesus has authority over unholy demons because he is the ultimate power. Evil spirits fear his power. They leave when he says, “Leave” (Zechariah 3:2; Mark 1:25; Luke 4:25, 39; Jude 1:9). Luke states that the boy was healed. Jesus gave the boy back to his father. The people marveled at Jesus’ power and authority for the boy was cured.
While the people were distracted by amazement at Jesus’ power, Jesus pulled his disciples aside and told them, “Listen carefully to what I am about to tell you: The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into the hands of men.” This was the second time Jesus told them (Luke 9:22), only this time he added, “Listen carefully…” Again, they did not understand for they did not consider it the first time they heard it. “In one ear and out the other,” as the old saying goes.
If the disciples had thought about what Jesus was saying at this miracle, they would have learned that Jesus could easily stop his suffering and crucifixion from happening. This would have saved them from confusion and humiliation when it happened.
When Jesus was arrested by the temple guards Peter drew his sword and cut off the ear of the high priest’s servant, probably a boy. Jesus did not command an army of angels to fight for him. He did not command his disples to fight for him. Instead, Jesus commanded Peter, “Put your sword away! Shall I not drink the cup the Father has given me?” (John 18:11) Listen to Jesus today and not be ashamed tomorrow.
