to know Jesus to be the Holy One of God. He desires to have nothing to do with Jesus, for he
despairs of being saved by him, and dreads being destroyed by him. See whose language those
speak, that say to the Almighty, Depart from us. This unclean spirit hated and dreaded Christ,
because he knew him to be a Holy One; for the carnal mind is enmity against God, especially against
his holiness. When Christ by his grace delivers souls out of the hands of Satan, it is not without
tumult in the soul; for that spiteful enemy will disquiet those whom he cannot destroy. This put all
who saw it upon considering, What is this new doctrine? A work as great often is wrought now,
yet men treat it with contempt and neglect. If this were not so, the conversion of a notorious wicked
man to a sober, righteous, and godly life, by the preaching of a crucified Saviour, would cause
many to ask, What doctrine is this?
Verses 29–39
Wherever Christ comes, he comes to do good. He cures, that we may minister to him, and to
others who are his, and for his sake. Those kept from public ordinances by sickness or other real
hinderances, may expect the Saviour's gracious presence; he will soothe their sorrows, and abate
their pains. Observe how numerous the patients were. When others speed well with Christ, it should
quicken us in seeking after him. Christ departed into a solitary place. Though he was in no danger
of distraction, or of temptation to vain-glory, yet he retired. Those who have the most business in
public, and of the best kind, must yet sometimes be alone with God.
Verses 40–45
We have here Christ's cleansing of a leper. It teaches us to apply to the Saviour with great
humility, and with full submission to his will, saying, “Lord, if thou wilt,” without any doubt of
Christ's readiness to help the distressed. See also what to expect from Christ; that according to our
faith it shall be to us. The poor leper said, If thou wilt. Christ readily wills favours to those who
readily refer themselves to his will. Christ would have nothing done that looked like seeking praise
of the people. But no reasons now exist why we should hesitate to spread the praises of Christ.
Chapter 2
Chapter Outline
Christ heals one sick of the palsy. (1–12)
Levi's call, and the entertainment given to (13–17)
Jesus.
Why Christ's disciples did not fast. (18–22)
He justifies his disciples for plucking corn (23–28)
on the sabbath.