Were beyond measure astonished. He hath done all things well—Mark intensifies Greek: exceedingly beyond measure astonishment, struck out of one's senses. Their amazement exceeded normal surprise—they witnessed something categorically unprecedented. This profound awe is appropriate response to divine in-breaking. The declaration he hath done all things well echoes Genesis 1:31: God saw everything he made, very good. The crowd recognizes Jesus's works parallel creation—He does all things well as God did creating the world. Not merely good but beautiful, fitting—restoration to original design. Jesus's healings reverse the Fall's curse, previewing new creation. He maketh both the deaf to hear, and the dumb to speak—quoting Isaiah 35:5-6, messianic prophecy. Gentiles recognized what Jerusalem's scribes refused.
Historical Context
The Decapolis's enthusiastic response contrasts with Galilean rejection (Mark 6:1-6) and Pharisaic opposition. Those who should have recognized their Messiah—Jews, religious leaders—rejected Him. Gentiles in pagan territory immediately recognized divine action. This anticipates the gospel's trajectory: rejected by Israel's majority, spreading to Gentiles worldwide (Acts 13:46, Romans 11:11-12). The claim also testified against critics accusing Jesus of working through Beelzebul (Mark 3:22)—evil cannot produce such good.
Questions for Reflection
How does recognizing Jesus does all things well shape trust in His sovereignty over chaotic circumstances?
Why do outsiders and marginalized often recognize Jesus more readily than religious insiders?
How do Jesus's healings preview new creation where God makes all things new (Revelation 21:5)?
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Analysis & Commentary
Were beyond measure astonished. He hath done all things well—Mark intensifies Greek: exceedingly beyond measure astonishment, struck out of one's senses. Their amazement exceeded normal surprise—they witnessed something categorically unprecedented. This profound awe is appropriate response to divine in-breaking. The declaration he hath done all things well echoes Genesis 1:31: God saw everything he made, very good. The crowd recognizes Jesus's works parallel creation—He does all things well as God did creating the world. Not merely good but beautiful, fitting—restoration to original design. Jesus's healings reverse the Fall's curse, previewing new creation. He maketh both the deaf to hear, and the dumb to speak—quoting Isaiah 35:5-6, messianic prophecy. Gentiles recognized what Jerusalem's scribes refused.