Matthew 8:32
"Go!" He told them. So they came out and went into the pigs, and the whole herd rushed down the steep bank into the sea and died in the waters.
Go!
In this passage, Jesus speaks a single commanding word, "Go!" The Greek word used here is "Ὑπάγετε" (hypagete), which is an imperative form, indicating a command. This word reflects the authority of Jesus over the spiritual realm. In the context of the narrative, Jesus is addressing the demons possessing two men. The command is direct and powerful, showcasing Jesus' divine authority and the immediate obedience required by the spiritual forces. This moment underscores the belief in Christ's sovereignty over all creation, both seen and unseen, and His power to liberate those in bondage.

So they came out
The phrase "So they came out" demonstrates the immediate obedience of the demons to Jesus' command. The Greek verb "ἐξελθόντες" (exelthontes) is used here, meaning "to come out" or "to go out." This action signifies the expulsion of the demons from the possessed men, highlighting the effectiveness of Jesus' word. Historically, this event would have been a powerful testament to the people witnessing it, affirming Jesus' identity as the Messiah with authority over evil spirits. It serves as a reminder of the transformative power of Christ's presence and His ability to bring freedom and healing.

and went into the pigs
The demons' entry into the pigs is a significant moment in the narrative. The Greek word "εἰσῆλθον" (eisēlthon) means "they entered." This action fulfills the request of the demons to be sent into the herd of pigs rather than being cast into the abyss. The choice of pigs, considered unclean animals in Jewish culture, adds a layer of symbolism to the event. It reflects the impurity of the demons and the separation between the holy and the unholy. This moment also serves as a visual representation of the spiritual battle and the consequences of sin and evil.

and the whole herd rushed down the steep bank into the sea
The phrase "and the whole herd rushed down the steep bank into the sea" describes the dramatic and chaotic scene that follows the demons' entry into the pigs. The Greek word "ὥρμησεν" (hōrmēsen) means "rushed" or "charged," indicating a sudden and uncontrollable movement. This event would have been shocking to the onlookers, as the pigs' self-destructive behavior symbolizes the destructive nature of evil. The "steep bank" and "sea" provide a geographical context, likely referring to the region around the Sea of Galilee. This scene serves as a powerful illustration of the ultimate fate of evil and the deliverance that comes through Christ.

and perished in the water
The final phrase, "and perished in the water," concludes the narrative with the destruction of the pigs. The Greek word "ἀπέθανον" (apethanon) means "perished" or "died." This outcome emphasizes the destructive power of the demonic forces and the cleansing nature of water, often symbolizing purification and judgment in biblical literature. The perishing of the pigs serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of sin and the ultimate victory of good over evil. It also highlights the value of human life over material possessions, as Jesus prioritizes the deliverance of the possessed men over the economic loss represented by the herd. This passage inspires believers to trust in Christ's power to overcome evil and bring about spiritual renewal.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Jesus
- The central figure in this passage, demonstrating His authority over the spiritual realm by commanding the demons.

2. Demons
- Spiritual beings that possessed two men and requested to enter the herd of pigs.

3. Pigs
- A herd of swine that the demons entered, leading to their destruction in the sea.

4. Sea
- The body of water into which the pigs rushed and drowned, symbolizing chaos and destruction.

5. Gadara (or Gergesenes)
- The region where this event took place, a Gentile area known for its pig farming.
Teaching Points
Authority of Christ
Jesus' command over the demons demonstrates His supreme authority over all creation, including the spiritual realm. Believers can trust in His power to deliver and protect.

Spiritual Warfare
This passage reminds us of the reality of spiritual warfare and the presence of evil forces. Christians are called to be vigilant and rely on God's strength in spiritual battles.

Value of Human Life
The destruction of the pigs underscores the value Jesus places on human life and deliverance over material loss. Believers should prioritize spiritual well-being over material possessions.

Response to Jesus' Power
The townspeople's reaction to Jesus' miracle (as seen in the broader context) challenges us to consider our response to His authority and works in our lives.

Transformation and Testimony
The delivered demoniac's transformation (in the broader account) serves as a powerful testimony to God's grace and power, encouraging believers to share their own accounts of transformation.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does Jesus' authority over the demons in Matthew 8:32 encourage you in your own spiritual battles?

2. In what ways can we prioritize spiritual well-being over material possessions in our daily lives?

3. How does the reaction of the townspeople to Jesus' miracle challenge us to respond to His work in our lives today?

4. What can we learn from the transformation of the demoniac about the power of personal testimony in sharing the Gospel?

5. How do the parallel accounts in Mark and Luke enhance our understanding of this event and its significance?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Mark 5:1-20 and Luke 8:26-39
These parallel accounts provide additional details about the demoniac and the aftermath of the pigs' destruction.

Genesis 1:26-28
Highlights humanity's dominion over creation, contrasting with the destructive influence of demons.

James 2:19
Emphasizes that even demons recognize and submit to the authority of Jesus, as seen in this passage.

Philippians 2:9-11
Affirms the ultimate authority of Jesus, to whom every knee will bow, including spiritual beings.
A Man in RuinsBeecherMatthew 8:28-33
Christ and the DemoniacF. Wallace.Matthew 8:28-33
Christ Sending the Demons from the Man into the SwineJ. Bennett, D. D.Matthew 8:28-33
Evil to be Opposed in Self-DefenceBeecher.Matthew 8:28-33
Physical Injury not ToleratedBeecher.Matthew 8:28-33
Sin and SalvationPulpit AnalystMatthew 8:28-33
The Accusing Conscience of the WickedAmerican Homiletic MonthlyMatthew 8:28-33
The Authority of Right Over WrongBeecher.Matthew 8:28-33
Demoniacal PossessionJ.A. Macdonald Matthew 8:28-34
The Divorce of Supreme PityP.C. Barker Matthew 8:28-34
People
Esaias, Isaac, Isaiah, Jacob, Jesus, Peter
Places
Capernaum, Gadara, Galilee, Sea of Galilee
Topics
Bank, Behold, Cliff, Departed, Died, Entire, Forth, Herd, Instantly, Lake, Perished, Pigs, Ran, Replied, Rushed, Rushing, Sharp, Slope, Steep, Swine, Violently, Waters, Whereupon
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Matthew 8:32

     4165   exorcism

Matthew 8:23-32

     5300   drowning

Matthew 8:28-34

     2030   Christ, holiness

Matthew 8:31-32

     4135   demons, Christ's authority over

Matthew 8:32-34

     5857   fame

Library
The Touch that Cleanses
'When He was come down from the mountain, great multitudes followed Him. 1. And, behold, there came a leper and worshipped Him, saying, Lord, if Thou wilt, Thou canst make me clean. 3. And Jesus put forth His hand, and touched him, saying, I will; he thou clean. And immediately his leprosy was cleansed. 4. And Jesus saith unto him, See thou tell no man; but go thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them.'--MATT. viii. 14. THE great collection
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Healing Christ
'Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses.'--MATT. viii. 17. You will remember, probably, that in our Old Testament translation of these words they are made to refer to man's mental and spiritual evils: 'He bare our griefs and carried our sorrows.' Our evangelist takes them to refer, certainly not exclusively, but in part, to men's corporeal evils--'our infirmities' (bodily weaknesses, that is) 'and our sicknesses.' He was distinctly justified in so doing, both by the meaning of the
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Swift Healing and Immediate Service
'And when Jesus was come into Peter's house, He saw his wife's mother laid, and sick of a fever. 15. And He touched her hand, and the fever left her: and she arose and ministered unto them.'--MATT. viii. 14-15. Other accounts give a few additional points. Mark:-- That the house was that of Peter and Andrew. That Christ went with James and John. That He was told of the sickness. That He lifted her up. Luke, physician-like, diagnoses the fever as 'great.' He also tells us that the sick woman's friends
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Christ Repressing Rash Discipleship
'And a certain scribe came, and said unto Him, Master, I will follow Thee whithersoever Thou goest. 20. And Jesus saith unto him, The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of Man hath not where to lay His head.'--MATT. viii. 19-20. Our Lord was just on the point of leaving Capernaum for the other side of the lake. His intended departure from the city, in which He had spent so long a time, and wrought so many miracles, produced precisely opposite effects on two of the
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Christ Stimulating Sluggish Discipleship
'And another of His disciples said unto Him, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father. 22. But Jesus said unto him, Follow Me; and let the dead bury their dead.'--MATT. viii. 21-22. The very first words of these verses, 'And another of His disciples,' show us that the incident recorded in them is only half of a whole. We have already considered the other half, and supplement our former remarks by a glance at the remaining portion now. The two men, whose treatment by Christ is narrated, are
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Peace-Bringer in the Natural World
'And when He was entered into a ship, His disciples followed Him. 24. And, behold, there arose a great tempest in the sea, insomuch that the ship was covered with the waves; but He was asleep. 25. And His disciples came to Him, and awoke Him, saying, Lord, save us: we perish. 26. And He saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm. 27. But the men marvelled, saying, What manner of man la this, that even the
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Peace-Bringer in the Spiritual World
'And when He was come to the other side into the country of the Gergesenes, there met Him two possessed with devils, coming out of the tombs, exceeding fierce, so that no man might pass by that way. 29. And, behold, they cried out, saying, What have we to do with Thee, Jesus, thou Son of God? art Thou come hither to torment us before the time? 30. And there was a good way off from them an herd of many swine feeding. 31. So the devils besought Him, saying, If Thou cast us out, suffer us to go away
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Faith which Christ Praises
'The centurion answered and said: Lord, I am not worthy that Thou shouldest come under my roof, but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed. 9. For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under me: and I say to this man, Go! and he goeth; and to another, Come I and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this; and he doeth it.'--MATT. viii. 8-9. This miracle of the healing of the centurion's servant is the second of the great series which Matthew gives us. It is perhaps not accidental that
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Cross and Crown.
At last He cried, with a loud voice: "It is finished!" Perhaps not many on earth heard it, or cared about it when they did hear it; but I can imagine there were not many in heaven who did not hear it, and if they have bells in heaven how they must have rung out that day; "It is finished! It is finished!" The Son of God had died that poor sinful man might have life eternal. I can imagine the angels walking through the streets of heaven crying: "It is finished!" and the mansions of that world ringing
Dwight L. Moody—Moody's Anecdotes And Illustrations

On the Words of the Gospel, Matt. viii. 23, "And when He was Entered into a Boat," Etc.
1. By the Lord's blessing, I will address you upon the lesson of the Holy Gospel which has just been read, and take occasion thereby to exhort you, that against the tempest and waves of this world, faith sleep not in your hearts. "For the Lord Christ had not indeed death nor sleep in His power, and peradventure sleep overcame the Almighty One as He was sailing against His will?" If ye believe this, He is asleep in you; but if Christ be awake in you, your faith is awake. The Apostle saith, "that Christ
Saint Augustine—sermons on selected lessons of the new testament

On the Words of the Gospel, Matt. viii. 8, "I am not Worthy that Thou Shouldest Come under My Roof," Etc. , and of the Words Of
1. We have heard, as the Gospel was being read, the praise of our faith as manifested in humility. For when the Lord Jesus promised that He would go to the Centurion's house to heal His servant, He answered, "I am not worthy that Thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and he shall be healed." [2163] By calling himself unworthy, he showed himself worthy for Christ to come not into his house, but into his heart. Nor would he have said this with so great faith and humility, had
Saint Augustine—sermons on selected lessons of the new testament

Heaven and Hell
To-night, I shall, I hope, encourage you to seek the road to heaven. I shall also have to utter some very sharp things concerning the end of the lost in the pit of hell. Upon both these subjects I will try and speak, as God helps me. But, I beseech you, as you love your souls, weigh right and wrong this night; see whether what I say be the truth of God. If it be not, reject it utterly, and cast it away; but if it is, at your peril disregard it; for, as you shall answer before God, the great Judge
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 1: 1855

Twenty-Seventh Day. Activity in Duty.
"I must work the works of Him that sent me, while it is day; the night cometh, when no man can work."--John, ix. 4. How constant and unremitting was Jesus in the service of His Heavenly Father! "He rose a great while before day;" and, when His secret communion was over, His public work began. It mattered not to Him where He was: whether on the bosom of the deep, or a mountain slope--in the desert, or at a well-side--the "gracious words" ever "proceeded out of His mouth." We find, on one touching
John R. Macduff—The Mind of Jesus

Healing the Centurion's Servant.
(at Capernaum.) ^A Matt. VIII. 1, 5-13; ^C Luke VII. 1-10. ^c 1 After he had ended all his sayings in the ears of the people, ^a 1 And when he was come down from the mountain, great multitudes followed him. ^c he entered into Capernaum. [Jesus proceeded from the mountain to Capernaum, which was now his home, or headquarters. The multitudes which are now mentioned for the third time were not wearied by his sermon, and so continued to follow him. Their presence showed the popularity of Jesus, and also
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

Healing Peter's Mother-In-Law and Many Others.
(at Capernaum.) ^A Matt. VIII. 14-17; ^B Mark I. 29-34; ^C Luke IV. 38-41. ^c 38 And he arose out of the synagogue [where he had just healed the demoniac], ^b 29 And straightway, when they were come out of the synagogue, they came { ^c entered} ^b into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. [Peter and Andrew had dwelt at Bethsaida (John i. 44). They may have removed to Capernaum, or Bethsaida, being near by, may be here counted as a part, or suburb, of Capernaum. Its name does not contradict
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

Jesus Stills the Storm.
(Sea of Galilee; Same Day as Last Section) ^A Matt. VIII. 18-27; ^B Mark IV. 35-41; ^C Luke VIII. 22-25. ^b 35 And that day, { ^c one of those days,} ^b when the even was come [about sunset], ^a when Jesus saw great multitudes about him, he gave commandment to depart unto the other side. { ^b he saith unto them, Let us go over unto the other side.} [Wearied with a day of strenuous toil, Jesus sought rest from the multitude by passing to the thinly settled on the east side of Galilee.] ^a 19 And there
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

Jesus Heals Two Gergesene Demoniacs.
(Gergesa, Now Called Khersa.) ^A Matt. VIII. 28-34; IX. 1; ^B Mark V. 1-21; ^C Luke VIII. 26-40. ^b 1 And they came to the other side of the sea [They left in the "even," an elastic expression. If they left in the middle of the afternoon and were driven forward by the storm, they would have reached the far shore several hours before dark], ^c 26 And they arrived at the country of the Gerasenes, which is over against Galilee. ^a 28 And when he was come into the country of the Gadarenes. ^c 27 And
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

A Sabbath in Capernaum
It was the Holy Sabbath - the first after He had called around Him His first permanent disciples; the first, also, after His return from the Feast at Jerusalem. Of both we can trace indications in the account of that morning, noon, and evening which the Evangelists furnish. The greater detail with which St. Mark, who wrote under the influence of St. Peter, tells these events, shows the freshness and vividness of impression on the mind of Peter of those early days of his new life. As indicating that
Alfred Edersheim—The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah

The Return to Capernaum - Healing of the Centurion's Servant.
We are once again in Capernaum. It is remarkable how much, connected not only with the Ministry of Jesus, but with His innermost Life, gathers around that little fishing town. In all probability its prosperity was chiefly due to the neighbouring Tiberias, which Herod Antipas [2583] had built, about ten years previously. Noteworthy is it also, how many of the most attractive characters and incidents in the Gospel-history are connected with that Capernaum, which, as a city, rejected its own real glory,
Alfred Edersheim—The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah

Christ Stills the Storm on the Lake of Galilee.
IT was the evening of that day of new teaching, and once more great multitudes were gathering to Him. What more, or, indeed, what else, could He have said to those to whom He had all that morning spoken in Parables, which hearing they had not heard nor understood? It was this, rather than weariness after a long day's working, which led to the resolve to pass to the other side. To merely physical weariness Jesus never subordinated his work. If, therefore, such had been the motive, the proposal to
Alfred Edersheim—The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah

At Gerasa - the Healing of the Demonised.
THAT day of wonders was not yet ended. Most writers have, indeed, suggested, that the healing of the demonised on the other side took place at early dawn of the day following the storm on the Lake. But the distance is so short that, even making allowance for the delay by the tempest, the passage could scarcely have occupied the whole night. [2899] This supposition would be further confirmed, if the evening' when Jesus embarked was what the Jews were wont to call the first evening,' that is, the time
Alfred Edersheim—The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah

Essential Character of the Work of Jesus.
Jesus, it will be seen, limited his action entirely to the Jews. Although his sympathy for those despised by orthodoxy led him to admit pagans into the kingdom of God--although he had resided more than once in a pagan country, and once or twice we surprise him in kindly relations with unbelievers[1]--it may be said that his life was passed entirely in the very restricted world in which he was born. He was never heard of in Greek or Roman countries; his name appears only in profane authors of a hundred
Ernest Renan—The Life of Jesus

Christ the Son of Man.
"The foxes have holes, and the birds of the heaven have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head" (Matt. viii. 20). "Who do men say that the Son of man is?" (Matt. xvi. 13). "And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up; that whosoever believeth may in him have eternal life" (John iii. 14). It is a matter of profound gratitude that our Saviour was a man. "The Son of man," as well as "the Son of God," was essential to His great work
Frank G. Allen—Autobiography of Frank G. Allen, Minister of the Gospel

Kingo's Church Hymns
Kingo's church hymns naturally differ from his spiritual songs. They are more objective in form and less fiery in spirit. Most of them follow their themes quite closely, reproducing in many instances even the words of their text. Kingo is too vital, however, to confine himself wholly to an objective presentation. Usually the last stanzas of his hymns are devoted to a brief and often striking application of their text. He possessed to a singular degree the ability to express a thought tersely, as
Jens Christian Aaberg—Hymns and Hymnwriters of Denmark

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