In the land of the Gadarenes, Jesus encounters demoniacs who were living among the tombs. In the Gospel of Matthew (8:28-34), the demoniacs beg Jesus to cast them into a herd of pigs, which then rush into the sea and drown. The people of the town are terrified and ask Jesus to leave their region. In the Gospel of Mark (5:1-20) and Luke (8:26-39), the story is similar in that Jesus encounters demoniacs, casts out the demons, and the people are in awe of his power. However, the specifics of the story differ slightly in each gospel.
This passage is important as it demonstrates Jesus's power over demons and his ability to bring healing and restoration to those who are oppressed. It also highlights the fear and rejection that can come when encountering the miraculous power of God. A helpful daily application for readers is to remember that Jesus has the power to deliver us from any form of spiritual oppression or bondage, and to trust in his authority over all spiritual forces.
This passage is found in the gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, with variations in details and responses from the people involved. Each account emphasizes the authority and compassion of Jesus in dealing with those who are oppressed by demons.
Matthew: 8:28-34
In Matthew 8:28-34, Jesus encounters two demon-possessed men who beg to be cast into a herd of pigs, causing the pigs to run into the sea and drown. This passage is also found in Mark 5:1-20 and Luke 8:26-39.
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Mark: 5:1-20
In Mark 5:1-20, Jesus encounters a man possessed by demons who lived among tombs. Jesus casts out the demons into a herd of pigs, causing them to run into the sea and drown. This passage is also found in Matthew 8:28-34 and Luke 8:26-39 in a similar account.
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Luke: 8:26-39
In Luke 8:26-39, Jesus exorcises a demon from a man in the region of the Gerasenes, sending the demon into a herd of pigs that then run into a lake and drown. This passage is also found in Mark 5:1-20 and Matthew 8:28-34.
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