Mark 9:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Mark 9:20
20 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.
Chapter Context
Mark 9 is a action-oriented gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of righteousness, mercy, holiness. Written during the mid first century CE (c. 65-70 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Composed during or just after Nero's persecution when eyewitnesses were disappearing.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-50: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Mark and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Mark 9:20
20 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.
Analysis
When they brought the boy to Jesus, 'the spirit tare him' (εὐθὺς συνεσπάραξεν αὐτόν). The demon's violent response to Jesus' presence intensified the boy's suffering. Throughout Mark, demons recognize and respond to Jesus' authority (Mark 1:24; 3:11; 5:7). The spirit 'tare' (synesparaxen, συνεσπάραξεν) means convulsed violently. The boy 'fell on the ground, and wallowed foaming' (πεσὼν ἐπὶ τῆς γῆς ἐκυλίετο ἀφρίζων). This escalation before deliverance is common in exorcism accounts—demons manifest violently when confronted by superior authority. Far from indicating Jesus' powerlessness, this demonstrates the demon's recognition that its time is limited. Reformed theology sees this as illustrating Satan's furious opposition knowing his defeat is certain (Revelation 12:12). The darkness rages most violently when light approaches.
Historical Context
Ancient exorcism accounts (both biblical and extrabiblical) often describe violent demonic manifestations when confronted. The demon's public display before the crowd served multiple purposes: demonstrating the reality of spiritual warfare, showing the severity of the bondage, and making Christ's authority more evident when He effortlessly cast out what violently resisted. First-century observers would understand this as cosmic battle between divine and demonic powers. Unlike pagan exorcisms requiring elaborate rituals, Jesus would command immediate obedience (v. 25). The demon's violent response to Jesus' mere presence foreshadows demons' terror at final judgment (James 2:19; Matthew 8:29).
Reflection
- What does the demon's violent response to Jesus' presence teach about spiritual warfare's reality and demons' recognition of Christ's authority?
- How does the pattern of darkness intensifying before deliverance apply to spiritual battles believers face?
Word Studies
- Spirit: πνεῦμα (Pneuma) G4151 - Spirit, wind, breath