Summary: Jesus introduced himself into people's lives, teaching with authority what the scribes failed to do (v22). Hos authority is ably exercised when he casts a demon out of a man with the unclean spirit (23-24). His powerful doctrine and actions amazed many observers (27-28)

Concentration on: '..I Know Thee Who Thou Art: You Are The Holy One Of God'

1. Jesus simply rebuked the unclean spirit and cast it out. (V25-26.)

Meditation: on these actions.

1. A man had an unclean spirit: meaning demons can enter a man and make his body their dwelling place.

2. The unclean spirits would use the man's body to do their unclean things.

3. The unclean spirits knew Jesus, and that he hated them using the man's body for their selfish benefit.

4. Jesus didn't listen to their patronizing pleas, he cast them out.

Revelation on: this scenario.

1. Unclean spirits are very patronizing: they come like angels of light so that a man can open a door for them to enter.

2. They know that what they cause people to do is bad and God does not like it.

3. As they patronize people, they tried it on Jesus: they are daring.

4. Jesus didnt give them a chance, he showed us that demons are only dealt with by casting them out.

Application: as a believer, I must:

1. Know that not every spirit that comes in the name of Jesus is true.

2. Live a holy life and give demons no chance to come and patronize me into sinning against God.

3. Know that I have the power to refuse unclean spirits into my life.

4. Cast out evil spirits in the name of Jesus out my life or the lives of people whom they oppress.