Mark 1:26

And when the unclean spirit had torn him, and cried with a loud voice, he came out of him.

And {G2532} when the unclean {G169} spirit {G4151} had torn {G4682} him {G846}, and {G2532} cried {G2896} with a loud {G3173} voice {G5456}, he came {G1831} out of {G1537} him {G846}.

Throwing the man into a convulsion, it gave a loud shriek and came out of him.

At this, the unclean spirit threw the man into convulsions and came out with a loud shriek.

And the unclean spirit, tearing him and crying with a loud voice, came out of him.

Commentary

Mark 1:26 vividly describes the dramatic moment of deliverance from an unclean spirit, showcasing Jesus' unparalleled authority.

Context

This verse is part of Jesus' early ministry in Capernaum's synagogue. On the Sabbath, Jesus was teaching with an authority that astounded the people, unlike the traditional scribes (Mark 1:22). Suddenly, a man possessed by an unclean spirit cried out, recognizing Jesus as "the Holy One of God" (Mark 1:24). Jesus immediately rebuked the spirit, commanding it to be silent and come out (Mark 1:25). Verse 26 details the spirit's violent departure in response to Jesus' command.

Key Themes

  • Jesus' Supreme Authority: The primary message is Jesus' absolute power over evil forces. He does not merely request or plead; He commands, and the spirit obeys, albeit violently. This demonstrates His divine nature and the reality of His kingdom breaking into the world.
  • The Reality of Demonic Activity: The passage affirms the existence of spiritual entities hostile to God and humanity, capable of possessing individuals. The spirit's recognition of Jesus highlights a spiritual understanding beyond human perception.
  • Dramatic Deliverance: The description "torn him" (referring to a convulsion or violent agitation) and "cried with a loud voice" before coming out emphasizes the struggle and the force required for the spirit's expulsion. It was not a quiet, peaceful exit, but a defiant, yet ultimately futile, display of resistance against Jesus' power.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated "torn him" is esparaxen (ἔσπαραξεν), derived from a root meaning "to convulse," "to rend," or "to tear." This vividly describes the physical manifestation of the spirit's violent departure, causing the man to writhe or spasm. The phrase "cried with a loud voice" (φωνῇ μεγάλῃ ἐκραξεν - phōnē megalē ekraxen) indicates a final, desperate, and perhaps defiant shriek as the spirit was forced to relinquish its hold, underscoring the spiritual battle taking place.

Related Scriptures

  • This event is paralleled in Luke 4:35, emphasizing the consistency of Jesus' power.
  • Jesus' authority over demons is a recurring theme throughout the Gospels, seen in instances like the Gadarene demoniac (Mark 5:8) and His disciples casting out spirits (Mark 6:7).
  • The power to cast out demons was also a sign given to believers after Jesus' resurrection, as mentioned in the Great Commission in Mark 16:17.

Practical Application

Mark 1:26 offers profound reassurance: no spiritual darkness or oppressive force is too strong for Jesus Christ. His authority remains absolute. For believers, this verse highlights the reality of spiritual warfare but also the certainty of Christ's victory. We are called to stand firm in the power of His name, knowing that He has triumphed over all principalities and powers. It encourages us to trust in His deliverance and protection in all circumstances.

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Cross-References

  • Mark 9:26 (3 votes)

    And [the spirit] cried, and rent him sore, and came out of him: and he was as one dead; insomuch that many said, He is dead.

  • Mark 9:20 (3 votes)

    And they brought him unto him: and when he saw him, straightway the spirit tare him; and he fell on the ground, and wallowed foaming.

  • Luke 9:42 (2 votes)

    And as he was yet a coming, the devil threw him down, and tare [him]. And Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit, and healed the child, and delivered him again to his father.

  • Luke 9:39 (2 votes)

    And, lo, a spirit taketh him, and he suddenly crieth out; and it teareth him that he foameth again, and bruising him hardly departeth from him.

  • Luke 11:22 (2 votes)

    But when a stronger than he shall come upon him, and overcome him, he taketh from him all his armour wherein he trusted, and divideth his spoils.