“‘What do you want with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? Swear to God that you won’t torture me!’ For Jesus had said to him, ‘Come out of this man, you evil spirit!’”
Mark 5:7-8
Three of the gospel books tell of a man who was subject to demonic influence. Are we subject to demonic influence today? Typically, we don’t experience demons as described in the Bible. But yes, we do indeed face the same enemy, Satan.
Paul wrote that we battle against “the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms” (Ephesians 6:12). These forces affect us physically, spiritually, psychologically, emotionally, and attitudinally. They torment and disturb the divine likeness in which we were created. They separate us from God and lead us into destructive behaviors.
So where is our hope? What holds our lives together? An encounter with Jesus Christ! Note in Mark 5:7 how the demons tremble before Him, afraid of punishment because next to Jesus, they’re completely impotent.
But not even a change of residence saved them. They learned they can’t win against Jesus. As soon as they were cast into the pigs, the whole herd rushed down the steep bank into the lake and drowned. The man was free! Jesus’ amazing power conquered evil.
Paul wrote that we battle against “the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms” (Ephesians 6:12). These forces affect us physically, spiritually, psychologically, emotionally, and attitudinally. They torment and disturb the divine likeness in which we were created. They separate us from God and lead us into destructive behaviors.
So where is our hope? What holds our lives together? An encounter with Jesus Christ! Note in Mark 5:7 how the demons tremble before Him, afraid of punishment because next to Jesus, they’re completely impotent.
But not even a change of residence saved them. They learned they can’t win against Jesus. As soon as they were cast into the pigs, the whole herd rushed down the steep bank into the lake and drowned. The man was free! Jesus’ amazing power conquered evil.
Scripture Focus
Mark 5:1-20
Insight
Jesus told us to not let our hearts be troubled. “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
Bible In A Year
- Genesis 24
- Psalm 12
- Matthew 19-20