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Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Mark 1:29

Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Mark 1:29

And forthwith, when they were come out of the synagogue, they entered into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John.

29 34. The Cure of Peter’s Wife’s Mother and Others

29. they ] i. e. the Lord and the four disciples, whom He had already called. It was a Sabbath day, and He probably went to the Apostle’s house to eat bread. Comp. Luk 14:1.

Fuente: The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges

See the notes at Mat 8:14-15.

Fuente: Albert Barnes’ Notes on the Bible

Mar 1:29-31

But Simons wifes mother lay sick of a fever.

Simons wife

The Lord chose as the first of His apostles a married man, and after his election to follow the Lord he did not separate from his wife, but the Lord honours the family by sometimes dwelling in their house. St. Paul implies (1Co 9:5) that at times, at least, she accompanied St. Peter in his journeys. It appears from a very touching account given by Clement of Alexandria, that they were living together when she was called to martyrdom. They say, accordingly, that Peter, on seeing his wife led to death, rejoiced on account of her call and conveyance home, and called very encouragingly and comfortingly, addressing her by name, Remember thou the Lord. Such was the marriage of the blessed, and their perfect disposition towards those dearest to them. (M. F. Sadler.)

Miracles are instructive emblems of Scriptural truth

Spiritual truth, to be clearly discerned, often needs to be embodied in the more significant language of action. Christs miracles are like mirrors-bringing within easy view objects hard to see or quite out of sight. The famous picture of Aurora by Guido adorns the ceiling of one of the palaces of Rome. The discomfort attending the effort to look up, for the length of time required to study its beauty, is so great, that one could not adequately estimate its merit if there were no other way of viewing it. But a mirror, set up in the room so as to reflect the picture, permits the beholder to view it at his leisure with perfect ease. So the great miracle of the renewing of the soul is above our inspection, but in the mirror miracles of Jesus we have reflections, helping us to the better understanding of that spiritual work. Thus we may gain more good from them, than was imparted to those for whose special benefit they were originally wrought. (A. H. Currier.)

The Great Physicians skill

We have-

I. A scene of domestic trouble.

1. Trouble is widespread and manifold.

2. Earthly kinships are sources both of joy and grief.

3. Domestic trouble should not detain us from Gods house.

II. An application for belief-Anon they tell Him of her.

1. It was intercessory prayer.

2. We admire the simplicity of their request.

3. Nor should we overlook their promptness of suit.

III. Gracious interposition.

1. Here is a nearer approach, Though Christ has come near to us He can come nearer yet.

2. Jesus Christ does not refrain from personal contact.

3. Christs gracious touch elevates prostrate humanity-He lifted her up.

IV. Grateful recompense-She ministered unto them.

1. The recipient of Christs grace exhibits gratitude in a practical form.

2. Unconsciously she performed good service for others.

3. Jesus Christ stoops to accept service from all.

V. Christs healing virtue brings to light societys manifold sores.

1. The life of men is also their light. Jesus revealed to men, and to society, their needs. Probably no one knew that there was a demoniac in the synagogue, until Jesus began to teach. Men hide their deeper needs even from themselves, until the Healer comes.

2. Mens minds naturally reason from the special to the general.

3. We must observe how tolerant Christ is of human prejudices and traditional habits. The inhabitants of Capernaum would not bring their sick until the sun had set, i.e., until the Sabbath had closed. Towards human ignorance He is inexpressibly pitiful.

4. The rewards of faithful service are larger service yet. Jesus had blessed a man, a family; now He is required to bless a city. So shall it be in heaven. Fidelity shall be honoured by more responsible service-Be thou ruler over ten cities.

VI. The manifold needs of man disclose the hidden glory of Christ.

VII. Christ is the hope of humanity, but the terror of demons. The whole city was gathered to Him at the door. Men are more conscious of bodily evils, than of soul malady. But the goodness that attracts men, repels demons. (D. Davies, M. A.)

Jesus as Healer

Note-

I. The variety of the cases of healing. Fever. Divers diseases, demoniacal possession. Leprosy. Christ had no specialty; His resources were varied; He can touch all classes of human need.

II. How healing was effected by personal contact-Took her by the hand. Put forth His hand and touched him.

III. How rapidly the patients were healed-immediately. Ordinarily healing travels slowly; here as if by lightning. So in matters spiritual.

IV. How manifest was the reality of the healing. Peters mother-in-law ministered. Work of Christ in man always seen in its effects. Saul (Gal 1:23). (H. Thorne.)

A domestic drama

I. What the friends of the sick woman rid.

1. They told Jesus of her. Worth while to be sick to be brought to Him.

2. Anon they told Him of her, i.e., at once.

3. They told Him of her. Often what is everybodys business is nobodys.

4. They told Him of her. Prayer is telling Jesus.

II. What Jesus did.

1. He came: at once, but not always at once, for good reasons.

2. He took her by the hand. Without ceremony: familiarly.

3. He lifted her up. Gospel always raises.

4. He healed her immediately. Pardon instantly ours when we grasp Christs hand.

III. What the restored woman did. Ministered. We are saved to work: by precept and example. (J. S. Swan.)

The religious uses of time

I. Social service (Mar 1:31).

II. Public ministry (Mar 1:32-34).

III. Private devotion (Mar 1:35). (J. Parker, D. D.)

Christs public and private ministry

Jesus had a public ministry in the synagogue; a private ministry in the domestic circle.

I. The individual case as well as that of the multitudes should receive attention.

II. Bodily diseases as well as spiritual ailments are within the sphere of our solicitude.

III. We are to put ourselves in personal contact with the suffering. We can do little by proxy.

IV. We should never leave a house without leaving a blessing behind.

V. Our visits, like the masters, should not be mere visits of courtesy. (J. Parker, D. D.)

Simons wifes mother

If Peter was the first Pope, he set them an example in this respect which all the popes and all the clergy would have been wise to follow. Nature never injures grace. It is not desirable to be without parents in our youth, or without wife or husband in our mature life. The love of another heart is not only a quiet resting place, but a great aid to goodness; and he who loves well wife or child wilt love God better for doing so. (R. Glover.)

Simons wifes mother

I. Let us ascertain what it teaches concerning this noted apostle, Simon Peter. Marriage is honourable in all, Let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband.

II. What do we know of this woman who was cured? But there is something to be said concerning the wife herself, and this is of special importance. There is reason to believe that she remained a most faithful companion and fellow worker with Peter, whom Paul always calls Cephas, down to the end of her life. For in one of Pauls epistles an allusion is made to her: he says, Have we not power to lead about a sister, a wife, as well as other apostles, and as the brethren of the Lord, and Cephas? This was written more than twenty years after Christs resurrection, when Peter was an old man. As a comment upon the verse, Clement of Alexandria adds: Peter and Philip had children, and both took about their Wives, in order that they might act as their assistants in ministering to women at their own homes; by their means the doctrine of the Lord penetrated without scandal into the privacy of the womens apartments.

III. What do we know about the other members of this apostles family? There is a beautiful little legend, altogether uninspired, which is found in the history of sacred and legendary art; there is nothing to prevent its being true, and it is certainly worth telling. The story relates that Peter had a lovely daughter, born in lawful wedlock, who accompanied him in his journey from the East. At Rome she fell sick of a grievous infirmity which deprived her of the use of her limbs. One of Simons disciples sitting at meat with him said: Master, how is it that thou, who healest the infirmities of others, dost not heal thy daughter Petronilla? It is good for her to remain sick, replied her father, perhaps thinking of the profitable discipline which the pain might bring to her. But that they all might see the power that was in the word of God, he commanded her to get up and serve them at table-which she did. Then afterwards, praying fervently, the maiden was permanently healed.

IV. It is refreshing to turn from the mere poetry of a legend to the serene majesty of history. And now there is a lesson in almost every particular.

1. Was this woman sick of a great fever? Then we see how Christ is the only help, but always the sure help, in desperate cases. He is able to save bodies and souls to the uttermost.

2. Did the disciples go and tell Jesus of her? Then we may note the advantage of faith in the Divine and sovereign Saviour. None but Jesus can do helpless sinners good.

3. Are we told that those home friends besought the Lord in her behalf? Then we learn how necessary is fervent prayer. For all these things will I be inquired of by the house of Israel.

4. Did our Saviour touch this womans hand, and touch it only, for her cure? Then observe how delicate is the ministration of Divine grace in the gospel, and let us be gentle with souls.

5. Was it the interposition of other people which availed to bring this sick creature to health? Then how fine is the office of human means and instruments with God. There is really a glorious share in the work of saving souls which He permits.

6. Do we notice that this woman was also lifted up by Jesus? The miracle is a parable; God never lays a commandment on any soul which He does not aid that soul in performing for Him.

7. Did the cured woman rise at once to begin her grateful service? It is by that we know her healing was perfectly done. The good Lord never leaves body or soul half-delivered from ill.

8. Was Simons wifes mother satisfied to minister to Jesus Christ right off and right there? Then think how much valuable time some impatient people waste in trying to find a field of work for Christ, when most likely the best task lies nearest at hand. This woman entered the ministry just as truly as Simon Peter did: he preached, and she served; that was ministry.

9. Were these wonderful privileges misused and perverted by Capernaum? Then let all the world know and remember that it is preeminently a dangerous thing to do, this disregard of the merciful manifestations of the Divine presence among men. (C. S. Robinson, D. D.)

Peters mother-in-law cured

I. The sufferer.

II. Her complaint.

III. Her cure.

1. That there was no parade.

2. There was no delay.

3. There was no ground for doubting its reality. (Expository Outlines.)

The best house visitation

I. How grace came to Peters house.

II. What it did in Peters house.

III. How it flowed forth from Peters house. (C. H. Spurgeon.)

Wherever Christ comes, He comes to do good, and will be sure to pay richly for His entertainment. (M. Henry.)

Domestic affliction healed by Christ

I. The scene of this domestic affliction.

1. The home of a disciple.

2. The house visited by Christ.

II. The healing of this domestic affliction.

1. It was done tenderly.

2. It was done immediately.

3. It was done easily.

4. It was done effectually.

III. The healing was followed by ministration.

1. It was prompted by the glad impulse of her new strength.

2. It was obligated by a remembrance of her Benefactor.

3. It was required by her relatives.

4. It was not avoided by unreal excuses.

Lessons:

1. Cultivate in your homes the feeling of discipleship toward Christ.

2. Seek Christ as a constant Visitor to your home.

3. Tell Christ of all your domestic sorrows.

4. Let His healing touch be immediately followed by your active ministration. (Joseph S. Exell, M. A.)

Mutual benefits

The afflicted should receive sympathy and succour, and return kindness and help. (J. H. Godwin.)

Instant healing from Christ

By His touch He restored her immediately to health and strength. This no human physician could have done. After a fever a long convalescence ensues before health returns. But in the case of Christs miracles, it was with diseases as with the sea. After a storm there is a swell, before the sea sinks into a calm. But Christ reduced the fury of the sea by a word to perfect calm, as He did the rage of the fever to perfect health. She arose and was ministering to Him, thus proving the cure and her own love to its Author. (Bishop Chris. Wordsworth.)

The ministry of women

Became a servant to them. Her work was common womens work which had simply to do with the physical wants of Christ and His disciples. There are a few women who are called by God to work publicly for Him: but for the most part the ministry of women lies in another direction. We are not to be so much like Miriam and Deborah as like Ruth and Hannah. If we cannot preach we can work for the poor as Dorcas did; we may lend our rooms for Bible readings and prayer meetings, as did Mary the mother of Mark; and like the elect lady we may bring up our children to work in the truth. We can minister to the disciples who are in our house; to ignorant servants; to the sick, and old, and lonely; to those who have few friends and whom other workers overlook. Whatever we are we may do something for Christ. Some can speak for Him, more can sing for Him, and more still can smile for Him. Willing hands will not remain long idle if wedded to thoughtful hearts and observant eyes. (Marianne Farningham.)

Fuente: Biblical Illustrator Edited by Joseph S. Exell

Verse 29. See this account of the healing of Peter’s mother-in-law explained at large, Mt 8:14-17.

Fuente: Adam Clarke’s Commentary and Critical Notes on the Bible

See Poole on “Mat 8:14-15“, where we met with this history. Our Saviour sometimes showed his power in diseases not accounted incurable. The miracle appeared,

1. In the cure of her without the use of any means.

2. In the instantaneousness of the act; she did not recover gradually, but in a moment, and to such a degree as she could minister unto them, suppose at dinner or supper, &c.

Fuente: English Annotations on the Holy Bible by Matthew Poole

29. And forthwith, when they werecome out of the synagogueso also in Lu4:38.

they entered into the houseof Simon and Andrew, with James and JohnThe mention of thesefourwhich is peculiar to Markis the first of those traces ofPeter’s hand in this Gospel, of which we shall find many more. Thehouse being his, and the illness and cure so nearly affectinghimself, it is interesting to observe this minute specification ofthe number and names of the witnesses; interesting also as the firstoccasion on which the sacred triumvirate of Peter and James and Johnare selected from among the rest, to be a threefold cord of testimonyto certain events in their Lord’s life (see on Mr5:37) Andrew being present on this occasion, as the occurrencetook place in his own house.

Fuente: Jamieson, Fausset and Brown’s Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible

And forthwith, when they were come out of the synagogue,…. Christ having wrought this miracle, and finished his sermon, and the whole synagogue service being over, when it was usual for every one to repair to their own houses, or their friends, for refreshment; he, and they that were with him, departed from it, and directly, being not far from it,

they entered into the house of Simon and Andrew; who being brethren, dwelt together in a house at Capernaum, where it seems they were now inhabitants, though their native place was Bethsaida, Joh 1:44,

with James and John; whom they took along with them, being fellow disciples of Christ.

Fuente: John Gill’s Exposition of the Entire Bible

Christ Healing Many Patients.



      29 And forthwith, when they were come out of the synagogue, they entered into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John.   30 But Simon’s wife’s mother lay sick of a fever, and anon they tell him of her.   31 And he came and took her by the hand, and lifted her up; and immediately the fever left her, and she ministered unto them.   32 And at even, when the sun did set, they brought unto him all that were diseased, and them that were possessed with devils.   33 And all the city was gathered together at the door.   34 And he healed many that were sick of divers diseases, and cast out many devils; and suffered not the devils to speak, because they knew him.   35 And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed.   36 And Simon and they that were with him followed after him.   37 And when they had found him, they said unto him, All men seek for thee.   38 And he said unto them, Let us go into the next towns, that I may preach there also: for therefore came I forth.   39 And he preached in their synagogues throughout all Galilee, and cast out devils.

      In these verses, we have,

      I. A particular account of one miracle that Christ wrought, in the cure of Peter’s wife’s mother, who was ill of a fever. This passage we had before, in Matthew. Observe,

      1. When Christ had done that which spread his fame throughout all parts, he did not then sit still, as some think that they may lie in bed when their name is up. No, he continued to do good, for that was it he aimed at, and not his own honour. Nay, those who are in reputation, had need be busy and careful to keep it up.

      2. When he came out of the synagogue, where he had taught and healed with a divine authority, yet he conversed familiarly with the poor fishermen that attended him, and did not think it below him. Let the same mind, the same lowly mind, be in us, that was in him.

      3. He went into Peter’s house, probably invited thither to such entertainment as a poor fisherman could give him, and he accepted of it. The apostles left all for Christ; so far as that what they had should not hinder them from him, yet not so, but that they might use it for him.

      4. He cured his mother-in-law, who was sick. Wherever Christ comes, he comes to do good, and will be sure to pay richly for his entertainment. Observe, How complete the cure was; when the fever left her, it did not, as usual, leave her weak, but the same hand that healed her, strengthened her, so that she was able to minister to them; the cure is in order to that, to fit for action, that we may minister to Christ, and to those that are his for his sake.

      II. A general account of many cures he wrought–diseases healed, devils expelled. It was on the evening of the sabbath, when the sun did set, or was set; perhaps many scrupled bringing their sick to him, till the sabbath was over, but their weakness therein was no prejudice to them in applying to Christ. Though he proved it lawful to heal on the sabbath days, yet, if any stumbled at it, they were welcome at another time. Now observe,

      1. How numerous the patients were; All the city was gathered at the door, as beggars for a dole. That one cure in the synagogue occasioned this crowding after him. Others speeding well with Christ should quicken us in our enquiries after him. Now the Sun of righteousness rises with healing under his wings; to him shall the gathering of the people be. Observe, How Christ was flocked after in a private house, as well as in the synagogue; wherever he is, there let his servants, his patients, be. And in the evening of the sabbath, when the public worship is over, we must continue our attendance upon Jesus Christ; he healed, as Paul preached, publicly, and from house to house.

      2. How powerful the Physician was; he healed all that were brought to him, though ever so many. Nor was it some one particular disease, that Christ set up for the cure of, but he healed those that were sick of divers diseases, for his word was a panpharmacon–a salve for every sore. And that miracle particularly which he wrought in the synagogue, he repeated in the house at night; for he cast out many devils, and suffered not the devils to speak, for he made them know who he was, and that silenced them. Or, He suffered them not to say that they knew him (so it may be read); he would not permit any more of them to say, as they did (v. 24), I know thee, who thou art.

      III. His retirement to his private devotion (v. 35); He prayed, prayed alone; to set us an example of secret prayer. Though as God he was prayed to, as man he prayed. Though he was glorifying God, and doing good, in his public work, yet he found time to be alone with his Father; and thus it became him to fulfil all righteousness. Now observe,

      1. The time when Christ prayed. (1.) It was in the morning, the morning after the sabbath day. Note, When a sabbath day is over and past, we must not think that we may intermit our devotion till the next sabbath: no, though we go not to the synagogue, we must go to the throne of grace, every day in the week; and the morning after the sabbath particularly, that we may preserve the good impressions of the day. This morning was the morning of the first day of the week, which afterward he sanctified, and made remarkable, by another sort of rising early. (2.) It was early, a great while before day. When others were asleep in their beds, he was praying, as a genuine Son of David, who seeks God early, and directs his prayer in the morning; nay, and at midnight will rise to give thanks. It has been said, The morning is a friend to the Muses–Aurora Musis amica; and it is no less so to the Graces. When our spirits are most fresh and lively, then we should take time for devout exercises. He that is the first and best, ought to have the first and best.

      2. The place where he prayed; He departed into a solitary place, either out of town, or some remote garden or out-building. Though he was in no danger of distraction, or of temptation to vain-glory, yet he retired, to set us an example to his own rule, When thou prayest enter into thy closet. Secret prayer must be made secretly. Those that have the most business in public, and of the best kind, must sometimes be alone with God; must retire into solitude, there to converse with God, and keep up communion with him.

      IV. His return to his public work. The disciples thought they were up early, but found their Master was up before them, and they enquired which way he went, followed him to his solitary place, and there found him at prayer, Mar 1:36; Mar 1:37. They told him that he was much wanted, that there were a great many patients waiting for him; All men seek for thee. They were proud that their Master was become so popular already, and would have him appear in public, yet more in that place, because it was their own city; and we are apt to be partial to the places we know and are interested in. “No,” saith Christ, “Capernaum must not have the monopoly of the Messiah’s preaching and miracles. Let us go into the next towns, the villages that lie about here, that I may preach there also, and work miracles there, for therefore came I forth, not to be constantly resident in one place, but to go about doing good.” Even the inhabitants of the villages in Israel shall rehearse the righteous acts of the Lord, Judg. v. 11. Observe, Christ had still an eye to the end wherefore he came forth, and closely pursued that; nor will he be drawn by importunity, or the persuasions of his friends, to decline from that; for (v. 39) he preached in their synagogues throughout all Galilee, and, to illustrate and confirm his doctrine, he cast out devils. Note, Christ’s doctrine is Satan’s destruction.

Fuente: Matthew Henry’s Whole Bible Commentary

The house of Simon and Andrew ( ). Peter was married and both he and Andrew lived together in “Peter’s house” (Mt 8:14) with Peter’s wife and mother-in-law. Peter was evidently married before he began to follow Jesus. Later his wife accompanied him on his apostolic journeys (1Co 9:5). This incident followed immediately after the service in the synagogue on the sabbath. All the Synoptics give it. Mark heard Peter tell it as it occurred in his own house where Jesus made his home while in Capernaum. Each Gospel gives touches of its own to the story. Mark has “lay sick of a fever ” ( ), lay prostrate burning with fever. Matthew puts it “stretched out () with a fever.” Luke has it “holden with a great fever” ( ), a technical medical phrase. They all mention the instant recovery and ministry without any convalescence. Mark and Matthew speak of the touch of Jesus on her hand and Luke speaks of Jesus standing over her like a doctor. It was a tender scene.

Fuente: Robertson’s Word Pictures in the New Testament

THE MOTHER OF SIMON’S WIFE IS HEALED V. 29-31

1) “And forthwith when they were come out of the synagogue,” (kai euthus ek tes sunagoges ekselthontes) “And immediately going forth (departing) out of the synagogue,” at Capernaum, on the northwest seashore of Galilee, Mar 1:21.

2) “They entered into the house of Simon and Andrew,” (elthon eis ten oikian Simonos kai Andreou) “They came into the residence (house) of Simon and Andrew,” entered into their home, adjacent to the entrance to the Synagogue, accompanied by James and John, the other two disciples, recently called, Mar 1:16-20.

3) “With James and John.” (meta lakobou kai loannou) “With (in company with) James and John,” the apparent founders, charter members of our Lord’s new body, His church, which began in Galilee, Act 10:37; Act 1:21-22; Joh 15:16-17; Joh 15:26-27; Joh 20:21.

Fuente: Garner-Howes Baptist Commentary

Mar 1:29

. They came, with James and John, into the house of Simon and Andrew. There is reason to conjecture, that Matthew does not relate this history in its proper order: for Mark expressly states, that there were only four disciples who attended Christ. Besides, when he left the synagogue, he went straight to Peter’s house; which also shows clearly, that Matthew did not observe, with exactness, the order of time. The Evangelists appear to have taken particular notice of this miracle; not that, in itself, it was more remarkable, or more worthy of being recorded, than other miracles, — but because, by means of it, Christ gave to his disciples a private and familiar illustration of his grace. Another reason was, that the healing of one woman gave occasion to many miracles, so that they came to him in great numbers, from every direction, to implore his assistance. A single word, in Luke’s narrative, presents to us more strikingly the power which Christ displayed; for he says, that Simon’s mother-in-law was held by a GREAT fever. It was a clearer and more affecting proof of divine power, that, in a moment, and by a single touch, he removed a strong and violent disease. He might have done it by the slightest expression of his will; but he touched her hand, ( Mat 8:15 ,) either to mark his affection, or because he was aware that this sign was, at that time, advantageous: for we know, that he freely used outward signs, when the time required them.

Fuente: Calvin’s Complete Commentary

(29) And forthwith.Again we have St. Marks characteristic word, as in the immediately of Mar. 1:28, and in the anon of Mar. 1:30. (See Notes on Mat. 8:14-15.)

Fuente: Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers (Old and New Testaments)

28. HEALING OF PETER’S WIFE’S MOTHER, vv. AND MANY OTHERS, Mar 1:29-39 .

( 29-33. See notes on Mat 8:14; Mat 8:17. 34-39. See notes on Mat 4:23-25.)

Fuente: Whedon’s Commentary on the Old and New Testaments

‘And immediately when they were come from the Synagogue they went into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. Now Simon’s wife’s mother lay sick of a fever, and straightway they tell him of her. And he came and took her by the hand and raised her, and the fever left her, and she ministered to their needs.’

Leaving the Synagogue they naturally went to the home of two of the disciples, Simon Peter and Andrew, who presumably lived in Capernaum. James and John also went with them instead of going home. They were now permanent followers of Jesus. It would seem that this house was used as a base while they were in the area.

It is possible that they told Jesus about Simon’s mother-in-law in order to explain the absence of a woman of the house to cope with their needs. This might suggest that Simon was a widower, or that his wife was away from home, and that at the time he relied on his mother-in-law, although 1Co 9:5 does suggest that Peter’s wife was still alive. Or they may just have mentioned it casually. Whichever way it was Jesus sprang into action. Going into her room He took her hand and raised her from the bed and the fever left her immediately and she was able to see to their needs. It would appear that it was still the Sabbath. Jesus did not see Himself as bound by the Sabbath regulations of the Scribes and Pharisees, except in public when He did not wish to cause unnecessary offence.

That this made a remarkable impression on Simon Peter comes out in that he remembered the incident specifically, and it confirms the idea that Peter’s reminiscences are behind Mark. Why else would such a ‘trivial’ detail be remembered?

Fuente: Commentary Series on the Bible by Peter Pett

Jesus Reveals His Power Over Disease and Evil Spirits (1:29-34).

The revelation of Jesus’ new power following His reception of Holy Spirit continued. Not only did He appoint disciples, teach with authority, and cast out evil spirits, but He revealed His power over every kind of disease.

Fuente: Commentary Series on the Bible by Peter Pett

The Power of Jesus Is Revealed in Healing And A Further Casting Out Of Spirits, But He Emphasises That His Main Ministry Must Be That of Preaching in Their Synagogues (1:29-39).

Having revealed His authority in His teaching and in the casting out of an unclean spirit with a word of command, Jesus carries out a healing ministry, commencing with Peter’s mother-in-law in Capernaum, and which also includes the casting out of unclean spirits who are ‘aware of Who He is’, although we do not learn the answer to the puzzle until Mar 3:11, where they declare Him to be the Son of God (unless it refers to the reference to Him as ‘the Holy One of God’). But these healings are only secondary to His main purpose which is to proclaim the Kingly Rule of God (Mar 1:15). Note the deliberate connection between His healings and exorcisms as taking place ‘in the evening’ and His parallel prayer life which takes place ‘early next morning’, illustrating what He later tells His disciples in Mar 9:29 that the foundation of His successful ministry is, humanly speaking, to be found, in prayer.

Analysis of 1:29-39.

a And immediately, when they were come out of the synagogue, they came into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John (Mar 1:29).

b Now Simon’s wife’s mother lay sick of a fever, and immediately they tell Him of her, and He came and took her by the hand, and raised her up, and the fever left her, and she ministered to them (Mar 1:30-31).

c And in the evening, when the sun set, they brought to Him all who were sick, and those who were possessed with devils, and all the city was gathered together at the door (Mar 1:32-33).

d And He healed many who were sick with various kinds of diseases, and cast out many devils, and He would not allow the devils to speak, because they knew Him (Mar 1:34).

c And in the morning, a great while before day, He rose up and went out, and departed into a desert place, and there prayed (Mar 1:35).

b And Simon and those who were with him followed after Him, and they found Him, and say to Him, “All are seeking you”. And He says to them, “Let us go elsewhere into the next towns, that I may preach there also, for to this end I came forth” (Mar 1:36-38)

a And He went into their synagogues throughout all Galilee, preaching and casting out devils” (Mar 1:39).

Note that in ‘a’ they come out of the synagogue, and in the parallel Jesus went to their synagogues throughout Galilee. In ‘b’ Simon and others are involved in seeking Jesus help for Simon’s mother-in-law, and He heals her and she ministers to them, and in the parallel Simon and others seek His help for the crowds, and He explains that He must move on and minister to others. In ‘c’ we learn what Jesus did in the evening, when He was surrounded by crowds, and in the parallel what He did in the early morning when He went alone with God because He knew that He must move on. Centrally in ‘d’ He would not let the demons speak because they knew Him. Mark possibly deliberately leaves this unexplained, probably because He wants his readers to think about it, but he provides the explanation later in Mar 3:11.

Fuente: Commentary Series on the Bible by Peter Pett

Jesus Heals Peter’s Mother-in-law ( Mat 8:14-15 , Luk 4:38-39 ) Mar 1:29-31 gives us the account of Jesus healing Peter’s mother-in-law.

Fuente: Everett’s Study Notes on the Holy Scriptures

The healing of Peter’s mother-in-law:

v. 29. And forthwith, when they were come out of the synagogue, they entered into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John.

v. 30. But Simon’s wife’s mother lay sick of a fever, and anon they tell Him of her.

v. 31. And He came and took her by the hand, and lifted her up; and immediately the fever left her, and she ministered unto them.

Mark tells this story with greater attention to detail than Matthew, undoubtedly because Peter had taken note of all the things which concerned him closely. By the word “forthwith” the evangelist calls attention to the miracle. The two brothers, Simon and Andrew, as the text here expressly states, had a house in Capernaum. And to this Christ and His four disciples wended their way. Hardly had they entered the house, when they, the members of the household, especially Simon and Andrew, told him about the severe sickness of Peter’s mother-in-law, who was ill with a bad fever, which is apt to sap the strength very rapidly. Jesus, in turn, lost no time in performing His work of sympathy. Going to her couch, He lifted or raised her up by taking hold of her hand. At the same time, He rebuked the fever, Luk 4:39, and it left her at once. And her full strength was restored to her in a moment, for she was able to arise and serve them all, but especially Him, to whom she owed her recovery. Fevers and grievous diseases of all kinds are an uncanny power, their very mysteriousness often renders them baffling and fearful. But Christ is stronger than all powers of destruction.

Fuente: The Popular Commentary on the Bible by Kretzmann

Mar 1:29. They entered into the house of Simon Peter was a native of Bethsaida; and when first admitted to Christ’s acquaintance, seems to have had his residence there: but happening to marry a woman of Capernaum, as is generally supposed, he removed thither with his brother Andrew; and there they prosecuted their common business of fishing, in company with James and John, the sons of Zebedee, who lived with them in one house. On the cure of St. Peter’s wife’s mother we shall speak, when we come to Luk 4:38-39.

Fuente: Commentary on the Holy Bible by Thomas Coke

Mar 1:29 ff. See on Mat 8:14 f.

] Jesus, Peter and Andrew. James and John are thereupon specially named as accompanying.

The short narrative is condensed, animated, graphic, [58] not subjected to elaboration, against which view the mention of Andrew , whom Matthew and Luke omit as a secondary person, cannot well be urged. Comp. Weiss, p. 654.

[58] In this point of view the sickness is denoted by the words . as severe enough not to allow the event to be treated as a simple soothing of the over-excited nervous system (Schenkel). Mere psychological soothings of this kind would simply stand in utter disproportion to the sensation produced by Jesus as a worker of miracles.

Fuente: Heinrich August Wilhelm Meyer’s New Testament Commentary

Mar 1:29-39 . In connection and narrative, Luk 4:38-44 is parallel. But compare also Mat 8:14-17 , which proceeds by way of abridgment.

Fuente: Heinrich August Wilhelm Meyer’s New Testament Commentary

3. Healing among the Disciples; Healings and casting out of Demons in Capernaum; the first Return of Christ after He had thus dealt with the susceptible in that city. Mar 1:29-35

(Parallels: Mat 8:14-17; Luk 4:38-41)

29And forthwith, when they were come out of the synagogue, they entered into thehouse of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. 30But Simons wifes mother laysick of a fever; and anon they tell him of her. 31And he came and took her by the hand, and lifted her up; and immediately the fever left her, and she ministered untothem. 32And at even, when the sun did set, they brought unto him all that were dis-eased, and them that were possessed with devils. 33And all the city was gathered together at the door. 34And he healed many that were sick of divers diseases, and castout many devils; and suffered not the devils to speak, because they knew him.13 35And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed.

EXEGETICAL AND CRITICAL

See on Mat 8:14-17

Mar 1:29. They entered into.Jesus, Peter, and Andrew are meant; the two latter as the ordinary occupants of the house, which Peter or both possessed in Capernaum (see on Matthew). In addition came James and John. Thus the Lord was with the collective four disciples who had been called.

Mar 1:30. And anon they tell him of her.Here also we have thrice in rapid succession. Immediately into the house, immediately to the matter in hand, immediately healed. Matthew transfers this miracle to a later period (see on Matthew). Starke for the sake of harmony: It may have been that the mother-in-law of Peter twice had the fever, and that Christ healed her twice. (!)

Mar 1:32. At even, when the sun did set.The full close of the Sabbath. Judos religio tenebat, quominus ante exitum. Sabbati grotos suos afferrent. Wetstein.

Mar 1:34. Sick of divers diseases, and cast out many devils.The physically sick and the demoniacs clearly distinguished (Mar 1:34; Mat 8:16); just as they are in relation to the opposite charisms which were given with respect to them, 1Co 12:9-10.And He healed many.Not as opposed to all who were brought to Him, but to describe the abundance and variety of the healings which took place so late in the evening.

Mar 1:35. Into a solitary place.To a secret place in the wilderness. It is to be noted that Jesus, according to Mark, thrice in quick succession, withdrew into the wilderness, Mar 1:12; Mar 1:35; Mar 1:45. Here we can understand only a solitude near Capernaum. That He thus took up His abode time after time in the wilderness, declared his supremacy over the demons of the wilderness. He made the desert place a temple of God by His prayers.

DOCTRINAL AND ETHICAL

1. The succession of events marks the development of Christs work: 1. The synagogue at home. 2. The house of Peter, as the hearth of the new community of disciples at its outset. 3. The whole town of Capernaum. 4. The entire land of Galilee.The progression of the influence of our Lords preaching: 1. His fame goes out through all Galilee. 2. The whole town of Capernaum presses for help at His door, yea, into His doors. 3. All seek Him after He had withdrawn. 4. Even in the wilderness they come to Him from all parts.
2. In order that they may punctiliously guard their own rest on the Sabbath, the people of Capernaum wait till evening with their sufferers, and rob the Lord of His rest in the night.

HOMILETICAL AND PRACTICAL

Jesus the Saviour of the new as of the old community (Peters house, the synagogue).And they told Him of her: with faith waxes intercession.Peter, as householder, a type of the ecclesiastic at home: 1. He is not hindered from his calling by domestic trouble (he also went into the synagogue); but, 2. he took his domestic trouble with him into his calling (he prayed the Lord for the sick).The people at Capernaum seeking help; or, Christ the true Physician: 1. As the revealer of human misery; 2. as the marvellous deliverer from it.An evening and a morning in the life of Jesus; or, His holy days work: 1. Closed in the blessing of toil; 2. renewed in devotion.The rapid diffusion of Christs work and influence: 1. Through the believing house; 2. through the susceptible town; 3. through the amazed land.New seclusion for new conflicts.Private prayer the source of Christs victories.The Lords early hours.His morning devotion.The significance of morning in the kingdom of God: 1. A festal time in the life of Jesus; 2. an image of His whole life; 3. a blessed time in the life of Christians; 4. figure of their regeneration and their eternity.How Christ sanctifies all times and all places.

Starke:Quesnel:The dwelling of a poor fisherman pleases Christ more than a great palace.Osiander:God is oftener in little huts than in rich palaces.Christianity and household life agree well together.Marriage unfits no man for the ministry.Compassionate love suffers not the wretched long to wait, but thinks at once of help.Quesnel:The love of Jesus is never weary.There are always wretched ones in this vale of tears, who stand in need of the help of the Most High.Christ the most approved Physician.It does not become the man spiritually possessed of the devil to reveal Christ.Early hours must be thought much of.For prayer even sleep must be abridged.

Gerlach:The gracious love of Christ amidst the household necessities of the poor and neglected.Lisco:Jesus connects together prayer and work, solitude and public life, in order to do good.Euth. Zig.:We must shun the praise of men, and thank God in silent secrecy.

Footnotes:

[13]Mar 1:34.Some Codd. add, that He was Christ.

Fuente: A Commentary on the Holy Scriptures, Critical, Doctrinal, and Homiletical by Lange

(29) And forthwith when they were come out of the synagogue, they entered into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. (30) But Simon’s wife’s mother lay sick of a fever; and anon they tell him of her. (31) And he came and took her by the hand, and lifted her up; and immediately the fever left her, and she ministered unto them. (32) And at even, when the sun did set, they brought unto him all that were diseased, and them that were possessed with devils. (33) And all the city was gathered together at the door. (34) And he healed many that were sick of divers diseases, and cast out many devils; and suffered not the devils to speak, because they knew him. (35) And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed. (36) And Simon, and they that were with him, followed after him. (37) And when they had found him, they said unto him, All men seek for thee. (38) And he said unto them, Let us go into the next towns, that I may preach there also; for therefore came I forth. (39) And he preached in their synagogues throughout all Galilee, and cast out devils.

I refer the Reader the comment on this passage, to what was said on the same, Mat 8:14 , etc.

Fuente: Hawker’s Poor Man’s Commentary (Old and New Testaments)

29 And forthwith, when they were come out of the synagogue, they entered into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John.

Ver. 29. They entered into the house ] Happy house in such a guest. If Elisabeth held it so great a matter, that the mother of her Lord should come unto her, Luk 1:43 , what may Peter think, since the Lord himself comes to give him a visit!

Fuente: John Trapp’s Complete Commentary (Old and New Testaments)

29 34. ] HEALING OF SIMON’S MOTHER-IN-LAW. Mat 8:14-17 . Luk 4:38-41 . The three accounts, perhaps from a common source (but see notes on Luke), are all identical in substance, but very diverse in detail and words.

Fuente: Henry Alford’s Greek Testament

Mar 1:29-31 . Cure of Peter’s mother-in-law (Mat 8:14-15 ; Luk 4:38-39 ). : even if the reading of [2] (participle and verb singular) be the true one, as it probably is just because the more difficult, the implied fact is that Jesus left the synagogue accompanied by His disciples, probably all four, Simon and Andrew as well as James and John. Jesus came from the synagogue to the house of Simon and Andrew, with them , and with James and John.

[2] Codex Vaticanus (sc. iv.), published in photographic facsimile in 1889 under the care of the Abbate Cozza-Luzi.

Fuente: The Expositors Greek Testament by Robertson

NASB (UPDATED) TEXT: Mar 1:29-31

29And immediately after they came out of the synagogue, they came into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. 30Now Simon’s mother-in-law was lying sick with a fever; and immediately they spoke to Jesus about her. 31And He came to her and raised her up, taking her by the hand, and the fever left her, and she waited on them.

Mar 1:30 “Simon’s mother-in-law” This shows that Peter was married. His wife is never mentioned in the NT. She may have been dead, but 1Co 9:5 implies she traveled with Peter. This account is paralleled in Luk 4:31-37 and Mat 8:14-17.

“was lying sick” This is an imperfect tense which shows continuous action in past time. She had been sick for some time.

“with a fever” This literally means “fever-stricken.” This is a present tense, which implies an ongoing problem. Notice this illness was not linked to demon possession (cf. Mar 1:32). Jesus’ power over sickness is another sign of His person and Messianic mission. As often in the Gospels Jesus’ miracles were as much for the disciples as for the recipient. Jesus is clearly revealing Himself to His newly chosen Apostles. Here He acts in compassion on the Sabbath. This would have been shocking to these Jewish men.

Fuente: You Can Understand the Bible: Study Guide Commentary Series by Bob Utley

forthwith = immediately, as in verses: Mar 1:12, Mar 1:28, Mar 1:31, Mar 12:42, See note on Mar 1:12.

Fuente: Companion Bible Notes, Appendices and Graphics

29-34.] HEALING OF SIMONS MOTHER-IN-LAW. Mat 8:14-17. Luk 4:38-41. The three accounts, perhaps from a common source (but see notes on Luke), are all identical in substance, but very diverse in detail and words.

Fuente: The Greek Testament

Mar 1:29. , forthwith) Jesus avoided the din of a crowd.-, they came) Jesus, and Simon, and Andrew.-, with) Already, after having left one home, James and John had several homes [viz., those of their fellow-disciples].

Fuente: Gnomon of the New Testament

Mar 1:29-31

4. PETER’S MOTHER-IN-LAW HEALED

Mar 1:29-31

(Mat 8:14-15; Luk 4:38-39)

29 And straightway, when they were come out of the synagogue, they came into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John.–These are specially mentioned as guests. Simon, together with Andrew his brother, had lived at Bethsaida, and had also removed to Capernaum with Jesus.

30 Now Simon’s wife’s mother–A conclusive proof that Peter was a married man. Roman Catholics claim Peter is the head of the church, and the vicegerent of Christ. The Pope, according to their views, is the successor of Peter. On what pretense do they claim that it is wrong for priests to marry? Why did Christ not at once reject Peter from being an apostle for having a wife?

lay sick of a fever; and straightway they tell him of her:–Luke (Luk 4:38) says: “Holden with a great fever,” indicating length and severity. How long she had been confined to her bed we have no means of knowing.

31 and he came and took her by the hand, and raised her up; and the fever left her, and she ministered unto them.–Matthew interjects “and she arose,” which Luke intensified with “immediately.”

The completeness of the restoration is seen by her returning to her ordinary household duties, so that she, who a moment before, lay helpless in their presence, was now serving them. The fever did not leave her weak and exhausted; she was raised to her full strength and to perfect health.

Fuente: Old and New Testaments Restoration Commentary

entered: Mat 8:14, Mat 8:15, Luk 4:38, Luk 4:39, Luk 9:58

Reciprocal: Mat 10:2 – Andrew Luk 6:14 – James

Fuente: The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Chapter 8.

Christ in the Home

“And forthwith, when they were come out of the synagogue, they entered into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. But Simon’s wife’s mother lay sick of a fever, and anon they tell Him of her. And He came and took her by the hand, and lifted her up; and immediately the fever left her, and she ministered unto them.”-Mar 1:29-31.

A Word of Significance.

“And straightway”; so our brief paragraph begins in the Revised Version. And that word “straightway” at once arrests and interests me.

The commentators tell us the word is characteristic of St Mark’s eager and vivid literary style. But it is really much more than an indication of St Mark’s active and bustling mind; it is a revelation of the ceaseless activity of our Lord’s life.

He had just been teaching in the synagogue, giving them an illustration of His power that left the people dumb with amazement; and “straightway” in Simon’s house He performs another mighty deed, and gives another proof of His mercy and grace. In our Lord’s life one miracle follows another; one great deed treads upon the heels of another.

The Master’s Life.

This word “straightway” illustrates, shall I say, the “pace” of our Lord’s life. He had no slack time; He had no intervals of ease; He had no holidays from service. Our Lord had an abiding sense of the urgency and pressure of life. “I have a baptism to be baptised with,” He said once, “and how am I straitened till it be accomplished” (Luk 12:50). “How am I straitened!”-what a tremendous urgency the phrase implies! And so He gave Himself to service with a devotion that filled all who beheld Him with wonder and awe.

Its Example to us.

What an example our Lord sets to us! We are slow, and slack, and listless. We sit at ease in Zion. We let opportunity slip, instead of buying it up. Here is the motto for the Christian-“straightway.” John Ruskin had on his desk, confronting him whenever he stood by it, the words, “Do it now.” The Christian might grave this word “straightway” on the tables of his heart. Now is always the accepted time; now is always the day of salvation.

Christ in the Home.

“And straightway, when they were come out of the synagogue, they came into the house of Simon and Andrew” (Mar 1:29, R.V.). What a privilege was Simon’s! How we envy the opportunities that fell to the lot of Simon and Zacchus and the sisters of Bethany! And yet why envy them? For the same happy privilege may be ours. “If a man love Me, he will keep My words: and My Father will love him, and We will come unto him, and make Our abode with him” (Joh 14:23). They came into Simon’s house, and in Simon’s house our Lord continued His ministry

His Bounty there.

“Now Simon’s wife’s mother lay sick of a fever; and straightway they tell Him of her: and He came and took her by the hand, and raised her up; and the fever left her” (Mar 1:30-31, R.V.). It is Matthew Henry who says, commenting on this story, that, “Whenever Christ comes, He comes to do good, and will be sure to pay richly for His entertainment.” And that is quite true. But never does He pay so richly as when a guest in a house of grief. Simon’s house was such a house that day. And immediately upon our Lord’s entry they tell Him their trouble. And they had no sooner told it to Him than He removed it-“He came and took her by the hand; and the fever left her.”

Simon one day talked a little boastfully about the sacrifices he and his friends made when they followed Christ. And our Lord replied that there was no one who had left houses or mother or brethren or sisters or children or lands, who would not receive a hundredfold. Simon was receiving some of the hundredfold that day!

Christ in the Homes of Grief.

All our homes at some time or another become homes of grief. But if Jesus is a guest, how richly He pays for His entertainment! For when we tell Him, somehow or other the burden is lifted. Not that the sickness, or whatever be the particular cause of anxiety, is at once removed, but the pain and grief are assuaged, and a blessed peace fills the soul.

How can the effect be better expressed than in the words the evangelist uses about Peter’s wife’s mother-“the fever left her”? That is exactly it! In the midst of our troubles and grief, when we feel the healing, cooling touch of Christ, the fever-the ache, the pain-passes out of our souls.

“Saved to Serve.”

“The fever left her, and straightway she ministered unto them.” The first use she made of her newly-recovered strength was to minister to Jesus and His disciples. This is an illustration of what ought to be a universal rule. We are “saved to serve.” Healing and life are given to us that we may use them in the holy service of Christ.

One commentator suggests that the serving on the part of Simon’s wife’s mother is the proof of the reality and completeness of the healing. If service is the proof evidence of healing, how does it stand with us? Are we serving? If not, is it certain that we have been healed? “We know,” says St John, “that we have passed out of death into life, because we love the brethren” (1Jn 3:14, R.V.).

Fuente: The Gospel According to St. Mark: A Devotional Commentary

9

Jesus and the first four disciples whom he called entered into the home of Simon and his brother.

Fuente: Combined Bible Commentary

Mar 1:29. And straightway. On the sabbath day (Mar 1:21) after the occurrence in the synagogue.

The house of Simon and Andrew. Now living in Capernaum (see on Mat 8:14).

With James and John. Mark alone mentions these. The particularity favors the theory that Peter had told Mark of it. The twelve were not yet chosen; though these four had been called to follow Christ (Mar 1:17; Mar 1:20).

Fuente: A Popular Commentary on the New Testament

Mar 1:29-34. They entered into the house of Simon That is, of Peter. See the notes on Mat 8:14-17. And all the city was gathered together at the door Namely, of the house in which Jesus was; some coming as humble petitioners for themselves or their friends, others as spectators of the surprising miracles which he wrought, and some probably to hear and be instructed by his discourses. O what a fair prospect was here! Who could then have imagined that all these blossoms would die away without fruit? And he healed many Luke says, Luk 4:40, He laid his hands on every one of them and healed them. The sight of so many of the humankind in distress, moved him; and he took pity on them, and cured them all. And he suffered not the devils to speak, because they knew him Luke, knew that he was the Christ That is, according to the hypothesis of those who consider the Scriptural demoniacs as being only diseased persons, he suffered not the diseases to speak, because they knew him! The fact seems to have been this, the demons, in addressing Jesus, honoured him with the title of the Messiah. This, his enemies said, they never would have done, had he not been in compact with them. Therefore, our Lord would not have their testimony, because it was a real and intended defamation of him; and because he foresaw that it would be made a bad use of by men of evil minds.

Fuente: Joseph Bensons Commentary on the Old and New Testaments

XXXII.

HEALING PETER’S MOTHER-IN-LAW

AND MANY OTHERS.

(At Capernaum.)

aMATT. VIII. 14-17; bMARK I. 29-34; cLUKE IV. 38-41.

c38 And he arose out of the synagogue [where he had just healed the demoniac], b29 And straightway, when they were come out of the synagogue, they came {centered} binto the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. [Peter and Andrew had dwelt at Bethsaida ( Joh 1:44). They may have removed to Capernaum, or Bethsaida, being near by, may be here counted as a part, or suburb, of Capernaum. Its name does not contradict this view, for it means “house of fishing” or “fishery.”] 30 Now Simon’s wife’s mother lay sick of {cwas holden with} a great fever. [The Papists, who claim that Peter was the first pope, must confess that he was married at this time, and continued to be so for years afterwards ( 1Co 9:5). Celibacy is unauthorized by Scripture ( Heb 13:4). God says it is not good ( Gen 2:18). Luke speaks as a physician; for Galen, the father of medicine, divided fevers into little and great.] a14 And when Jesus was come into Peter’s house, he saw his wife’s mother lying sick of a fever. band straightway they tell him of her: cand they besought him for her. [Their interest in her shows the spirit of love and kindness which pervaded the home.] b31 and he came c39 And he stood over her, and rebuked the fever [Though it was an inanimate force, it was still subject to rebuke, as were the winds and waves of Galilee– Mat 8:26]; a15 And he touched her hand, band took her by the hand, and raised her up [thus showing the miracle came from him, and that he felt a tender interest in the sufferer]; cand it {bthe fever} cleft her: and immediately she rose up {aarose,} band she ministered unto them. {ahim.} [Her complete recovery emphasized the miracle. Such fevers invariably leave the patient weak, [170] and the period of convalescence is long and trying, and often full of danger. She showed her gratitude by her ministry.] b32 And at even, awhen even was come, cwhen the sun was setting, {bdid set,} call they that had any sick with divers diseases, brought them unto him; bthey brought unto him all that were sick, and them {amany} bthat were possessed with demons. [Their delay till sundown was unquestionably caused by the traditional law of the Sabbath which forbade men to carry any burden on that day ( Joh 5:10). The Sabbath closed at sundown ( Lev 23:32). The distinction is drawn between the sick and the demon-possessed. Lightfoot gives two reasons why demoniacal possession was so common at that time, viz.: 1, the intense wickedness of the nation; 2, the addiction of the nation to magic, whereby the people invited evil spirits to be familiar with them.] cand he laid his hands on every one of them, aand he cast out the spirits with a word, and healed all cthem athat were sick: 17 that it might be fulfilled which was spoken through Isaiah the prophet [ Isa 53:4], saying, Himself took our infirmities, and bare our diseases. [Isaiah’s vision is progressive; he sees, first, a man of sorrows; second, a man sorrowful because he bore the sickness and sorrows of others; third, a man who also bore sin, and healed the souls of others by so doing. Such was the order of Christ’s life. His early years were spent in poverty and obscurity; his days of ministry in bearing, by sympathy and compassion, the sicknesses and sorrows of others ( Joh 11:35, Mar 14:34); and in the hour of his crucifixion, he became the world’s sin-bearer– Joh 1:29, 1Pe 2:24.] b33 And all the city was gathered together at the door. 34 And he healed many that were sick of divers diseases, and cast out many demons; c41 And demons also came out from many, crying out, and saying, Thou art the Son of God. And rebuking them, he suffered them {bthe demons} cnot to speak, bbecause they knew him. cthat he was Christ. [Those who are disposed to frequent spiritual seances and to seek information from mediums should remember that the Son of God permitted his disciples to receive no information from such sources. He forbade demons to speak in the presence of his own, even on the most important of all topics.] [171]

[FFG 169-170]

Fuente: McGarvey and Pendleton Commentaries (New Testament)

Mar 1:29-31. The Miracle of Healing in Simons House.Jesus and His disciples were apparently Simons guests in Capernaum. Simons wifes mother (? the hostess) was sick, and the members of the household appealed to Jesus. He lifted her up and not only freed her from fever, but restored her to strength so that she was able to prepare the meal. Fever usually leaves a patient weak, but when the Lord bestows health, restoration is immediate and complete (Jerome).

Fuente: Peake’s Commentary on the Bible

Fuente: Abbott’s Illustrated New Testament

29 And forthwith, when they were come out of the synagogue, they entered into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. 30 But Simon’s wife’s mother lay sick of a fever, and anon they tell him of her. 31 And he came and took her by the hand, and lifted her up; and immediately the fever left her, and she ministered unto them.

We see that Peter had a house and in the next verse we will see that he had a wife. I won’t make too much of a deal about the first Pope, owning property and having a wife, but he did according to the Word of God. You cannot argue with that authoritative source.

“Anon” simply means immediately or without intermission. They immediately told Christ of the sick mother.

I do not think that we should make too much of Peter not telling Christ that his mother-in-law was sick and that others had to do the informing. I would not want to imply that Peter had anything against her. Luke uses the term “they” while Matthew does not state who told Christ. Being the first day or two on the job Peter didn’t want to bug the boss with a fever.

Mark does not mention the detail of the healing, but Luke records that Christ “rebuked the fever; “indicating that there was more to it than just a touch as Matthew and Mark mention. The term “rebuked” is the same term used when Christ was dealing with the possessed man in the synagogue and it would indicate that Christ had authority over this fever as well as the demons in the man.

In two miracles we see that Christ had authority over the spirit world as well as natural disease. Rather impressive for His resume I would think. The people certainly should have been taking note of His work and ministry.

The result of this healing was that the woman immediately ministered to the visitors. It might be of note as well that when Christ healed her the woman was completely healed and IMMEDIATELY went to serving others. Now when you hear of modern day miracles be sure to compare them to this result. It was not a partial healing; it was not a long term healing process but an immediate removal of the fever.

Fuente: Mr. D’s Notes on Selected New Testament Books by Stanley Derickson

1:29 {11} And forthwith, when they were come out of the synagogue, they entered into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John.

(11) By healing different diseases he shows that he has brought true life into the world.

Fuente: Geneva Bible Notes

2. The healing of Peter’s mother-in-law 1:29-31 (cf. Matthew 8:14-15; Luke 4:38-39)

This incident, which happened immediately after the previous one, displays a different aspect of Jesus’ authority, His power over physical sickness. In Jesus day, people regarded fever as a disease not necessarily related to other maladies. [Note: Lane, p. 77.]

"The Talmud gives this disease precisely the same name . . ., ’burning fever,’ and prescribes for it a magical remedy, of which the principal part is to tie a knife wholly of iron by a braid of hair to a thornbush, and to repeat on successive days Exo 3:2-3, then Exo 3:4, and finally Exo 3:5, after which the bush is to be cut down, while a certain magical formula is pronounced. (Shabb. 37a)." [Note: Edersheim, 1:486.]

The account is full of detail that must have come to Mark through Peter, who had a special interest in this healing. Evidently Andrew and Simon shared this house with Simon’s mother-in-law and perhaps other family members. Jesus’ power resulted in instantaneous and complete recovery. The fact that Peter had a family helps us appreciate the sacrifice he made to follow Jesus.

Fuente: Expository Notes of Dr. Constable (Old and New Testaments)

CHAPTER 1:29-34 (Mar 1:29-34)

A GROUP OF MIRACLES

“And straightway, when they were come out of the synagogue, they came into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. Now Simon’s wife’s mother lay sick of a fever; and straightway they tell Him of her: and He came and took her by the hand, and raised her up; and the fever left her, and she ministered unto them. And at even, when the sun did set, they brought unto Him all that were sick, and them that were possessed with devils. And all the city was gathered together at the door. And He healed many that were sick with divers diseases, and cast out many devils; and He suffered not the devils to speak, because they knew Him.” Mar 1:29-34 (R.V.)

ST. Matthew tells us that on leaving the synagogue they entered into Peter’s house. St. Mark, with his peculiar sources of information, is aware that Andrew shared the house with his brother.

Especial interest attaches to the mention of the mother-in-law of Peter, as proving that Jesus chose a married man to be an apostle, the very apostle from whom the celibate ministry of Rome professes to have received the keys. The evidence does not stand alone. When St. Paul’s apostolic authority was impugned, he insisted that he had the same right to bring with him in his travels a believing wife, which Peter exercised. And Clement of Alexandria tells us that Peter’s wife acted as his coadjutor, ministering to women in their own homes, by which means the gospel of Christ penetrated without scandal the privacy of women’s apartments. Thus the notion of a Zenana mission is by no means modern.

The mother of such a wife is afflicted by fever of a kind which still haunts that district. “And they tell Him of her.” Doubtless there was solicitude and hope in their voices, even if desire did not take the shape of formal prayer. We are just emerging from that early period when belief in His power to heal might still be united with some doubt whether free application might be made to Him. His disciples might still be as unwise as those modern theologians who are so busy studying the miracles as a sign that they forget to think of them as works of love. Any such hesitation was now to be dispelled forever.

It is possible that such is the meaning of the expression, and if so, it has a useful lesson. Sometimes there are temporal gifts which we scarce know whether we should pray for, so complex are our feelings, so entangled our interests with those of others, so obscure and dubious the springs which move our desire. Is it presumptuous to ask? Yet can it be right to keep anything back, in our communion with our Father?

Now there is a curious similarity between the expression “they tell Jesus of her” and that phrase which is only applied to prayer when St. Paul bids us pray for all that is in our hearts. “In nothing be anxious, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.” So shall the great benediction be fulfilled: “The peace of God which passeth all understanding, shall guard your hearts and your thoughts” (Php 4:6-7). All that is unholy shall be purified, all that is unwise subdued, all that is expedient granted.

If this be indeed the force of St. Mark’s phrase, Jesus felt their modest reticence to be a strong appeal, for St. Luke says “they besought Him,” while St. Matthew merely writes that He saw her lying. The “Interpreter of St. Peter” is most likely to have caught the exact shade of anxiety and appeal by which her friends drew His attention, and which was indeed a prayer.

The gentle courtesy of our Lord’s healings cannot be too much studied by those who would know His mind and love Him. Never does He fling a careless blessing as coarse benefactors fling their alms; we shall hereafter see how far He was from leaving fallen bread to be snatched as by a dog, even by one who would have welcomed a boon thus contemptuously given to her; and in the hour of His arrest, when He would heal the ear of a persecutor, His courtesy appeals to those who had laid hold on Him, “Suffer ye thus far.” Thus He went to this woman and took her by the hand and raised her up, laying a cool touch upon her fevered palm, bestowing His strength upon her weakness, healing her as He would fain heal humanity. For at His touch the disease was banished; with His impulse her strength returned.

We do not read that she felt bound thereupon to become an obtrusive public witness to His powers: that was not her function; but in her quiet home she failed not to minister unto Him who had restored her powers. Would that all whose physical powers Jesus renews from sickness, might devote their energies to Him. Would that all for whom He has calmed the fever of earthly passion, might arise and be energetic in His cause.

Think of the wonder, the gladness and gratitude of their humble feast. But if we felt aright the sickness of our souls, and the grace which heals them, equal gratitude would fill our lives as He sups with us and we with Him

Tidings of the two miracles have quickly gone abroad, and as the sun sets, and the restraint of the sabbath is removed, all the city gathers all the sick around His door.

Now here is a curious example of the peril of pressing too eagerly our inferences from the expressions of an evangelist. St. Mark tells us that they brought “all their sick and them that were possessed with devils. And He healed” (not all, but) “many that were sick, and cast out many devils.” How easily we might distinguish between the “all” who came, and the “many” who were healed. Want of faith would explain the difference, and spiritual analogies would explain the difference, and spiritual analogies would be found for those who remained unhealed at the feet of the good Physician. These lessons might be very edifying, but they would be out of place, for St. Matthew tells us that He healed them all.

But who can fail to contrast this universal movement, the urgent quest of bodily health, and the willingness of friends and neighbors to convey their sick to Jesus, with our indifference to the health of the soul, and our neglect to lead others to the Savior. Disease being the cold shadow of sin, its removal was a kind of sacrament, an outward and visible sign that the Healer of souls was nigh. But the chillness of the shadow afflicts us more than the pollution of the substance, and few professing Christians lament a hot temper as sincerely as a fever.

As Jesus drove out the demons, He suffered them not to speak because they knew Him. We cannot believe that His rejection of their impure testimony was prudential only, whatever possibility there may have been of that charge of complicity which was afterwards actually brought. Any help which might have come to Him from the lips of hell was shocking and revolting to our Lord. And this is a lesson for all religious and political partisans who stop short of doing evil themselves, but reject no advantage which the evil deeds of others may bestow. Not so cold and negative is the morality of Jesus. He regards as contamination whatever help fraud, suppressions of truth, injustice, by whomsoever wrought, can yield. He rejects them by an instinct of abhorrence, and not only because shame and dishonor have always befallen the purest cause which stooped to unholy alliances.

Jesus that day showed Himself powerful alike in the congregation, in the home, and in the streets, and over evil spirits and physical disease alike.

Fuente: Expositors Bible Commentary