Mark 1:27

And they were all amazed, insomuch that they questioned among themselves, saying, What thing is this? what new doctrine [is] this? for with authority commandeth he even the unclean spirits, and they do obey him.

And {G2532} they were {G2284} all {G3956} amazed {G2284}, insomuch that {G5620} they questioned {G4802} among {G4314} themselves {G846}, saying {G3004}, What thing {G5101} is {G2076} this {G3778}? what {G5101} new {G2537} doctrine {G1322} is this {G5124}? for {G3754} with {G2596} authority {G1849} commandeth {G2004} he even {G2532} the unclean {G169} spirits {G4151}, and {G2532} they do obey {G5219} him {G846}.

They were all so astounded that they began asking each other, "What is this? A new teaching, one with authority behind it! He gives orders even to the unclean spirits, and they obey him!"

All the people were amazed and began to ask one another, “What is this? A new teaching with authority! He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey Him!”

And they were all amazed, insomuch that they questioned among themselves, saying, What is this? a new teaching! with authority he commandeth even the unclean spirits, and they obey him.

Commentary

Mark 1:27 captures the immediate and powerful reaction of the people in the synagogue at Capernaum after Jesus cast out an unclean spirit with a simple command. This verse highlights the profound impact of Jesus' ministry, which was unlike anything they had ever witnessed.

Context

This verse follows closely upon Jesus' initial teaching in the synagogue in Capernaum, where the people were already astonished because He taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes. The casting out of the demon, detailed in Mark 1:23-26, served as a dramatic demonstration of this authority, moving the crowd from mere astonishment at His teaching to utter amazement at His power over spiritual forces. This event marked a pivotal moment, showcasing Jesus' unique power before a public audience.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Unprecedented Authority: The central theme is Jesus' unparalleled authority. The people recognize that His power extends beyond mere words or traditional religious instruction; He wields dominion over supernatural evil. This is not just moral or intellectual authority, but a tangible, divine power that compels obedience from spiritual beings.
  • A "New Doctrine" Demonstrated: The crowd's question, "what new doctrine is this?", reveals their understanding that Jesus' teaching was inextricably linked to His power. Unlike the scribes who quoted past authorities, Jesus' "doctrine" was validated by immediate, powerful actions. This was a teaching accompanied by a demonstration of the Kingdom of God breaking into the present reality, confronting the kingdom of darkness.
  • Divine Identity Revealed: Jesus' ability to command unclean spirits, and their instant obedience, served as undeniable proof of His divine nature and messianic claims. The demons themselves often recognized Him (as seen in Mark 3:11), and their submission underscored His supreme power.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "authority" used here is exousia (ἐξουσία). It signifies not just raw power or ability (dynamis), but a rightful, inherent power and freedom to act, a legitimate dominion. This contrasts sharply with the borrowed or delegated authority of the scribes and Pharisees. When the verse states Jesus "commandeth he even the unclean spirits," it uses the Greek epitassō (ἐπιτάσσω), meaning to order, command, or charge, implying a direct and forceful directive that leaves no room for resistance. The "unclean spirits" (pneumata akatharta) were understood to be malevolent spiritual entities, often associated with physical and mental afflictions, highlighting the comprehensive nature of Jesus' power.

Practical Application

Mark 1:27 reminds believers today of the supreme authority of Jesus Christ. His power is not limited to ancient times; it is eternal and active. For those who follow Him, this verse offers assurance that:

  • His Word is Powerful: Just as His words commanded spirits, His teachings continue to transform lives and bring freedom.
  • Victory Over Darkness: Believers are called to live in the light of His authority, knowing that spiritual opposition ultimately has no lasting power against the power of Christ.
  • Authenticity of the Gospel: The Gospel message, while requiring faith, is also validated by the ongoing work of God in the world and in individual lives.
This verse encourages us to marvel at Jesus' power and to trust in His dominion over all things, visible and invisible.

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Cross-References

  • Luke 9:1 (4 votes)

    ¶ Then he called his twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases.

  • Matthew 9:33 (3 votes)

    And when the devil was cast out, the dumb spake: and the multitudes marvelled, saying, It was never so seen in Israel.

  • Mark 7:37 (3 votes)

    And were beyond measure astonished, saying, He hath done all things well: he maketh both the deaf to hear, and the dumb to speak.

  • Matthew 15:31 (3 votes)

    Insomuch that the multitude wondered, when they saw the dumb to speak, the maimed to be whole, the lame to walk, and the blind to see: and they glorified the God of Israel.

  • Mark 10:32 (2 votes)

    ¶ And they were in the way going up to Jerusalem; and Jesus went before them: and they were amazed; and as they followed, they were afraid. And he took again the twelve, and began to tell them what things should happen unto him,

  • Luke 4:36 (2 votes)

    And they were all amazed, and spake among themselves, saying, What a word [is] this! for with authority and power he commandeth the unclean spirits, and they come out.

  • Mark 10:24 (2 votes)

    And the disciples were astonished at his words. But Jesus answereth again, and saith unto them, Children, how hard is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God!