LUKE 4:31–37
HEALING OF A MAN WITH AN UNCLEAN SPIRIT
Text – Luke 4:31–37
31 Jesus went down to Capernaum, a town of Galilee. He taught them on the sabbath,
32 and they were astonished at his teaching because he spoke with authority.
33 In the synagogue there was a man with the spirit of an unclean demon, and he cried out in a loud voice,
34 “What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God!”
35 Jesus rebuked him and said, “Be quiet! Come out of him!” Then the demon threw the man down in front of them and came out of him without doing him any harm.
36 They were all amazed and said to one another, “What is there about his word? For with authority and power he commands the unclean spirits, and they come out.”
37 And news of him spread everywhere in the surrounding region.
Historical and Jewish Context
Capernaum, located on the northwestern shore of the Sea of Galilee, became a central location for Jesus’ ministry. Synagogues served not only as places of prayer and Scripture reading but also as venues for public instruction. In the Jewish worldview of the time, demonic possession was seen as a sign of spiritual conflict and impurity. Public exorcisms were rare and often associated with extreme holiness or divine authority. The title “Holy One of God” reflects deep spiritual insight into Jesus’ identity, ironically coming from a demon, not from the people.
Catholic Theological Perspective
This passage reveals Christ’s divine authority over both natural and supernatural realities (CCC 447–450). His word alone casts out demons, underscoring that His authority is not derived from rituals or incantations but from His divine person. The exorcism confirms Jesus’ role as the one who came to destroy the works of the devil (CCC 394, 550). It also demonstrates that His mission includes liberating humanity from spiritual bondage, inaugurating the Kingdom of God. The people’s amazement at His “word” prefigures the power of God’s Word in the Church’s teaching and sacraments.
Parallels in Scripture
Mark 1:21–28 – Parallel account of the same exorcism
Matthew 8:16 – Jesus casts out spirits with a word
Acts 16:16–18 – Paul casts out a spirit in Jesus’ name
James 2:19 – Even demons believe and tremble
1 John 3:8 – The Son of God was revealed to destroy the works of the devil
Key Terms
Capernaum – Jesus’ base of ministry in Galilee
Unclean Spirit – A demon that opposes God and afflicts people
Holy One of God – A title acknowledging Jesus’ divine identity
Rebuke – A command from divine authority
Authority – The divine power with which Jesus teaches and acts
Catholic Liturgical Significance
This reading appears in Ordinary Time, highlighting the authority of Christ’s word and the reality of spiritual warfare. It reminds the faithful that Jesus came to free us from sin and the influence of evil. The Church continues His ministry through exorcism, sacraments, and the preaching of the Word.
Conclusion
Jesus’ authority is revealed not only in His teaching but also in His power to liberate souls from evil. The demon’s recognition of Jesus contrasts with the crowd’s limited understanding. Christ’s mission brings healing, freedom, and the restoration of God’s reign over creation.
Reflection
Do I recognize the power of Christ’s Word in my life?
Am I aware of the spiritual battles I face and seeking strength in Christ?
How do I respond to Jesus’ authority—with resistance or faith?
Prayer
Lord Jesus, You are the Holy One of God. Speak Your word into my life and free me from anything that separates me from You. Strengthen me to live in the freedom of Your Kingdom. Let me always trust in Your authority over sin and darkness. Amen.