What does Luke 4:39 mean?

When Jesus was teaching, listeners noted the authority of His wisdom (Luke 4:22). They saw the same reflected in His verbal commands to a demon, who was compelled to obey (Luke 4:35–36). Here, Jesus has been asked to help Simon Peter's (Mark 3:16; John 1:42) mother-in-law (Luke 4:38). Once again, Jesus speaks with commanding power, and the result is instantaneous, complete healing. Matthew records this event, mentioning only that Jesus touched the woman (Matthew 8:14–15).

In the prior verse, Luke used Greek terminology implying this woman's fever was extreme. She is not suffering from a common cold; it's a serious illness. Another indicator of her suffering is that she was bedridden, unable even to extend hospitality to guests. In ancient culture, polite treatment of visitors was extremely important. The fact that the healed woman immediately begins serving guests is not surprising.

The instantaneous and complete nature of this healing also helps distinguish "real" miracles from sideshow tricks and cynical con artists. Jesus did not affect a minor change, or a gradual recovery. His words instantly changed the woman's health: from bedridden to active in a moment. When God chooses to speak through a true miracle, the message will be clear and obvious.