We find Jesus directly after calling His disciples and teaching in the synagogue.
Mark 1:23-25
Just then a man in their synagogue who was possessed by an evil spirit cried out, 24 “What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God!”
25 “Be quiet!” said Jesus sternly. “Come out of him!”
Later, after healing Peter’s mother-in-law.
Mark 1:32-34
That evening after sunset the people brought to Jesus all the sick and demon-possessed. 33 The whole town gathered at the door, 34 and Jesus healed many who had various diseases. He also drove out many demons, but he would not let the demons speak because they knew who he was.
Jesus gets up early the following day to pray, and the disciples look for Him. When they find Him, they tell Him everyone is looking for Him.
Mark 1:38-39
38 Jesus replied, “Let us go somewhere else—to the nearby villages—so I can preach there also. That is why I have come.” 39 So he travelled throughout Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and driving out demons.
Jesus says let’s keep going to other towns to preach the good news and to drive out demons.
There are many things to consider here, but the reality of so much demonic activity and Jesus’ response to it.
I am reminded of 1 John 4:4
John 4:4
You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.
We are to bring the good news, but Jesus is also in us, and He is greater than the evil spirits that have influenced the world.
As we make disciples, let us trust Jesus to drive out the evil and help people who are lost in darkness come to His saving light.
