And they were casting out many demons, and they were anointing many sick people with oil and healing them.
The disciples’ ministry was confirmed not only by word, but also by mighty works—not by their own power, but by the authority given by Christ. They were casting out many demons, which showed that the authority given by Christ was real and practical. They also anointed many sick people with oil and healed them. The oil here was not, in itself, a miracle-working substance, but an outward sign by which God’s healing mercy and their readiness to help people were indicated. The healings showed that the kingdom of God had drawn near to people and that the Savior’s power was at work also through those sent by Him. Thus, the disciples’ ministry becomes the continuation of Jesus’ ministry. Where the call to repentance is heard, there also the healing and liberating hand of God can be seen.