Matthew 9:33

And when the devil was cast out, the dumb spake: and the multitudes marvelled, saying, It was never so seen in Israel.

Matthew 9:33 (KJV)

Context

Matthew 9:33 concludes a brief account in which Jesus heals a man who was demon-possessed and mute. The people witnessing the miracle were amazed because they had never seen anything like it before. This event is one of several miracles in Matthew 9 that display Jesus’ authority, including healing a paralytic, raising a ruler’s daughter, and healing a woman with an issue of blood.

Meaning

The verse highlights Jesus’ authority over demonic forces. When the devil was cast out, the man spoke immediately, showing that the demon had caused his muteness. The Greek word for “dumb” (kophos) indicates an inability to speak, and the removal of the demon restored his speech. This demonstrates that Jesus is not only a teacher and healer but also the one who has power over the spiritual realm and can deliver people from the bondage of the enemy.

The man’s condition of being both demon-possessed and mute reflects the oppressive nature of spiritual bondage. Satan seeks to rob people of their voice, freedom, and ability to communicate. Jesus’ act of delivering the man illustrates His mission to set people free from spiritual bondage and restore their ability to express themselves.

Biblical connections

The multitudes’ exclamation, “It was never so seen in Israel,” underscores the unprecedented nature of Jesus’ works. Their response contrasts with the Pharisees’ accusation in Matthew 9:34, where they attribute Jesus’ power to the prince of the devils. This contrast highlights the division in the crowd’s reaction: some recognized divine intervention, while others rejected it.

Application

This verse serves as a testimony to the power of Jesus and the impact of His ministry. The people who witnessed the healing were not only amazed themselves but also became witnesses to the extraordinary works of Jesus. Their testimony could lead others to believe in Jesus and His ability to bring transformation. For believers today, this passage encourages confidence that Jesus can break every form of bondage and restore what the enemy has stolen, including the ability to speak and praise.

Reflection

The miracle invites us to consider what areas of our lives may be silenced or bound by spiritual oppression. Jesus’ power to cast out the demon and restore speech assures us that He can also free us from whatever hinders our witness and fellowship with God. The crowd’s wonder reminds us to approach Jesus’ works with awe and faith, not skepticism.