Based on Matthew 17:14-18, Mark 9:17-29, Luke 9:38-43

Jesus had power over the evil in the world. Several times, he forced evil spirits to leave those that they possessed: men, women, and children.

On one occasion, a father came to Jesus and said, “Teacher, I have brought you my only son, who is possessed by a spirit that has robbed him of speech. Whenever it seizes him, it throws him to the ground. He foams at the mouth, gnashes his teeth and becomes rigid.” Jesus told the father to bring the boy to Him…

As soon as the evil spirit saw Jesus, even though they were still far away, it threw the boy into a convulsion. He fell to the ground and rolled around, foaming at the mouth. “How long has he been like this?” Jesus asked.

The boy’s father answered, “From childhood. It has often thrown him into fire or water to kill him. But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us.”

“‘If you can’?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for one who believes.” Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” When Jesus saw that a crowd was running to the scene, he rebuked the impure spirit: “You deaf and mute spirit, I command you, come out of him and never enter him again.”

Because it knew who Jesus was, the spirit shrieked, convulsed him violently and came out. The boy looked so much like a corpse that many said, “He’s dead.” But Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him to his feet, and he stood up. Everyone in the crowd
was amazed by Jesus’ power.

This family could now lead a full and normal life! Imagine the boy’s mother. How do you think she felt about having a son who was obviously possessed by an evil spirit? Perhaps her family and community looked at her with shame in their eyes. Perhaps they wondered what she or her husband had done (or not done) to let this happen. How did her feelings change when her husband and son returned from meeting Jesus? What did she think about Jesus? How would you feel, if this were you? Will you ask Jesus to help your unbelief about the problems and shame in your life?

“I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” -John 10:10