Luke 4:39 - Coke's Commentary on the Holy Bible

Rebuked the fever,— This is an expression of the same kind and signification with rebuking the winds and the sea, Matthew 8:26. Not that either the one or the other was considered by Christ as persons; but it intimates his authority over all diseases, and over the elements, being analogous to the figurative expressions of scripture, which represent, not only all inanimate creatures as God's servants, but diseases, famines, pestilence, &c. as executioners waiting on him to inflict punishment upon rebellious sinners. Thus Habakkuk 3:5. Before him went the pestilence, and burning coals went forth at his feet; a figure which excellently represents the divine power, to which all things are subject. See Psalms 104:7; Psalms 106:9. We may remark, that this cure was effected in an instant, and not slowly, like the cures produced in the course of nature, or by medicine; for though the length and violence of her distemper had brought her into a weak and languid state, her full strength returned all at once, insomuch that, rising up immediately, she prepared a supper for them, and served them while at meat, shewing that she was restored to perfect health.