Deomons and Pigs Are Conquered

N.T.#91 "Demons and Pigs Are Conquered"

June 14, 2023

Matthew 8-Part 6 

LET IT GLOW

Previously, Jesus calmed a violent storm with just one word-peace. It sounds like right after the boat in which Jesus and the disciples were in landed, they encountered evil. Evil had tried to drown those guys and now Jesus will drown the evil ones. Take a closer look with me.

What happened?

• They were confronted by two men demon-possessed. These two prevented people from passing that way in order to get to town. (They lived in caves along the sea-side cliffs.)
• These two were exceeding fierce. One that is demon-possessed cannot control their body nor free himself from the demonic control. (Robert Lightner)
• Those 2 men had amazing strength since others tried to bind them with chains couldn't. (Mark 5:3-4) They shrieked in anguish day and night and cut themselves. (Mark 5:5) They dwelt in tombs like a savage animal. (Luke 8:27)
• Probably the bigger and stronger one confronted Jesus. (Keep in mind, Jesus had previously been confronted by The Devil in the wilderness, so He could handle those demons.)
• Jesus had a conversation with the demons.

 I wonder if we realize that demons are still in this world, trying to stop the work of the Son of God. Maybe we should take a step back and look at a situation in spiritual terms. Is evil behind the bad things happening? ?Are people discouraging us, trying to prevent our doing good? 

LET IT GROW

Jesus asked the demon what his name was, which was Legion. (Mark 5:9) A legion was a group of 6,000 men in a Roman army. At any rate, there were many demons in the man.

What do we find out about this?

1. Demons are fully aware of Jesus' identity and His power. Standing before them was Jesus, the Son of the Most High God, the One with complete authority over them. (Mark5:7; Luke 8:28)
2. The demons knew there ultimate destiny. The wondered if Jesus was going to torment them "before their time." (verse 29) Eternal fire was prepared for the devil and his angels.(25:41) Soon their afflicting, tempting, oppressing, and possessing people was coming to an end. 
3. The number of demons possessing the men was great. 
4. They requested to be cast into a herd of 2,000 swine.

When Jesus said "Go!" the demons went into the pigs and drown themselves by running over the cliff.

Insted of focusing on the demons and their power, it is best for us to focus on God, His character, and His power in our lives. 

LET IT GO

Clothe us in the spiritual armor You have provided for us, Jesus. (Ephesians 6:10-18)

We bow before You, Almighty God.

Please protect us from evil today.