A phrase we often hear is “I have good news and bad news, which do you want to hear first?”
In this passage we have a series of good news/bad news scenarios involving Jesus, his disciples and the people he meets.
Bad news/disciples can’t free a young boy from being possessed. Good news/ Jesus can and does.
Bad news/Jesus will be turned in and at the mercy of humans. More bad news/disciples are arguing over who is greatest. Good news/to be great in God’s kingdom is to be the least in the group of disciples.
Good news/Jesus’ name has power to deliver people from demon possessions. Bad news/it was not Jesus’ disciples doing the delivering, but someone unknown to them. Good news/Jesus is grateful for those who are doing good things in his name.
Bad news/Jesus is rejected in Samaria. Good news/he is able to continue to Jerusalem.
Bad news/no excuses or delays are to be given if one wants to follow Jesus. Good news/following Jesus start now…today.
