(compare 5:7), Jesus’ authoritative word silences and expels it. Because contemporary exorcisms normally included incantations, material items, and physical handling of the patient, the simple power of Jesus’ command would have greatly impressed Mark’s readers. “The Holy One of God,” although not attested as a messianic title in Jewish sources, clearly has such a meaning here and in John 6:69. As God’s all-powerful representative, the Messiah will destroy Satan’s kingdom (see 3:20–30). Because Jesus’