Mark 1:23 And there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit; and he cried out, I. A DEVIL IN CHURCH. Synagogue means church. For the time being it was a Christian church, because Christ taught in it. In it was a devil. Devils are found in strange places. In Paradise. "Among the sons of God" (Job 1). Notice their infinite impudence. Hard to say whether the man took the devil, or the devil took him. Whichever it was, illustrates his accommodating character. So now a self-righteous devil accompanies men to puff them up with pride; a critical devil to quarrel with the doctrine or the preacher. II. THE DEVIL'S CREED. The demon was orthodox. No heresy in hell. What he believed he publicly professed. Many have a better faith who are silent. His confession was rejected. Profession worthless without submission. Impiety of creed without conduct. III. THE DEVIL'S PRAYER. It was earnest and social, like that of Dives. Possible to pray earnestly and benevolently but in vain. It was prompted by fear and by wickedness. "Leave us alone" to sin and to torment. IV. THE DEVIL'S EXCOMMUNICATING. In coming out he "tore" him, etc., just as an evil-disposed out-going tenant does as much harm as possible in his last opportunity. What an expulsion 1 Public; by a word; in vain, the devil did not repent. This came of his orthodoxy, for it was without fruit; and of his prayer, for it was without faith. (A. J. Morris.) Parallel Verses KJV: And there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit; and he cried out,WEB: Immediately there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit, and he cried out, |
    |