We consider another account of healing and casting out of demons by the Lord Jesus Christ. This time, the man with whom Jesus dealt was mute and Jesus healed him. The account in these verses shows us that the ministry of Christ had (and still has) different effects on different people. We look at the following issues:

• What is underlined for us concerning Christ in the driving out of the demon and healing of the man?
• Since not all mute men were demon possessed, what would have distinguished this one to make it plain he was?
• What can we notice and learn from the reaction of the crowd?
• What can we learn from the reaction of the Pharisees?
• What is the unpardonable sin?

We are challenged to examine our own hearts to see how we respond to Christ. Are we those who have accepted Him? Are we those who at present haven’t accepted but are amazed? Are we hardening our hearts against him and in danger of the unpardonable sin? In each case, the passage is applied to help us respond as we should - to live in repentance and faith, looking only to Christ in teachableness and humility.