Quick Summary:

If people came to worship that morning in Capernaum expecting the same old/same old well, they were up for a rude awakening! The power and clarity of Jesus’ proclamation astounded the congregation. This NEW WORD Jesus speaks has them all standing on tiptoe; latches in their minds long closed suddenly spring open; linkages previously ignored usher in new possibilities; new space is created where healing can happen.

The powers of darkness have taken notice. These new spaces opening in the hearts and minds of Jesus’ hearers cannot be allowed to take root; they must be foreclosed.

The ancient worldview operating in the story that attributes illness to unclean spirits may be outdated medically. These days we might prefer the language of psychology rather than demon possession to diagnose the condition of the man in the synagogue. Nevertheless, this scene powerfully dramatizes the forces that can wreck havoc within individuals, communities, and countries. Not only does Jesus’ exorcism set the man free from bondage, providing a path for healing, it also restores a way for him to reconnect with his community.