Mark 1:23
And there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit; and he cried out,
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 12
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
τῇ
G3588
τῇ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
συναγωγῇ
synagogue
G4864
συναγωγῇ
synagogue
Strong's:
G4864
Word #:
5 of 12
an assemblage of persons; specially, a jewish "synagogue" (the meeting or the place); by analogy, a christian church
αὐτῶν
their
G846
αὐτῶν
their
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
6 of 12
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
πνεύματι
spirit
G4151
πνεύματι
spirit
Strong's:
G4151
Word #:
9 of 12
a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin
ἀκαθάρτῳ
an unclean
G169
ἀκαθάρτῳ
an unclean
Strong's:
G169
Word #:
10 of 12
impure (ceremonially, morally (lewd) or specially, (demonic))
Historical Context
First-century Judaism acknowledged demonic possession as real phenomenon. Exorcists existed using formulas rituals incantations. Jesus method was unique simple authoritative command without elaborate ritual. Demons recognized Jesus as Holy One of God acknowledging His divine identity. The synagogue congregation witnessed this displaying Jesus power publicly. This first miracle established Jesus authority over spiritual realm pattern continued throughout His ministry. Early church continued exorcism ministry in Jesus name demonstrating kingdom power.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Jesus authority over demons demonstrate His identity and mission?
- What does demonic presence in synagogue teach about religious externalism versus genuine spirituality?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
In synagogue was man with unclean spirit who cried out. First exorcism in Mark demonstrates Jesus authority over spiritual realm. Unclean spirit demon possessing man rendering him ceremonially and morally defiled. The demon cried out recognizing Jesus threatened demonic kingdom. Synagogue setting dramatic demonic presence in religious space shows spiritual darkness can exist alongside religious activity. Jesus encounters evil head-on His ministry includes spiritual warfare. Reformed theology affirms reality of demonic realm while emphasizing Christ complete victory over Satan and demons through cross and resurrection.