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. (Mark 1:29-34 KJV)
Jesus Heals Many
In these verses, we have a particular account of a miracle that Christ performed—he healed Peter’s mother-in-law, who was sick with a fever (Mark 1:29-31; see also Matthew 8:14-15). When Christ had done something that made his fame spread, he didn’t rest or stop working, but continued doing good, for that was his purpose, not personal recognition. When he left the synagogue, where he had taught and healed with divine authority, he still associated with the humble fishermen who followed him and didn’t think it beneath him. We should have the same humble attitude.
He went into Peter’s house, likely invited for a modest meal, and he accepted. The apostles left all for Christ, but not in such a way that they couldn’t use what they had in service to him. Christ healed Peter’s mother-in-law. Wherever he comes, he comes to do good. The healing was complete—she wasn’t left weak, as is often the case after a fever—but was immediately strong enough to serve them. His healing power restores strength to serve him and his people.
That evening, after the Sabbath ended and the sun had set, many people came to him to be healed or freed from demons (Mark 1:32-34). Perhaps some waited until the Sabbath was over, not yet understanding it was lawful to heal on the Sabbath. Still, their hesitation didn’t stop them from coming when they could. All the city gathered at the door, like beggars seeking help. That one miracle in the synagogue had sparked this rush of people to him. The Sun of Righteousness had risen with healing in his wings (Malachi 4:2), and people came from everywhere. Christ was sought after not only in public spaces like the synagogue but in private homes too. And after public worship ends, we should continue seeking Jesus, as he healed in both public and private settings.
He healed all who came to him, regardless of how many or how varied their illnesses were. His word was a remedy for every affliction. As he did earlier in the synagogue, he cast out many demons and didn’t allow them to speak because they knew who he was. He wouldn’t allow them to declare, “I know who you are,” as one had said before (Mark 1:24). Their testimony, though true, was not welcome from such a source.