Gadarene Demons

Gadarene Demoniac - Matthew 8: 28-34

God's word brings us to a gentile Territory called the Gadarenes. One indication of it being a Gentile area because of the many pigs. Traditionally, Jewish dietery didn't allow for pork as part of their diet. Pork was considered unclean. It would be rare to find a pig in the Hebrew territories.

In addition, God's word speaks about two people who were controlled by Evil Spirits. They lived among the tombs. They were chained down. Many people avoided the area because of the evil possessions. In this dark place, evil spirits are aggressively active.

Whether we believe or not, the setting, environment, territory can affect our soul. The things that we see, read or hear, the places that we go can certainly have an effect on the soul. God's word calls us to be mindful of our surroundings and how it could affect our spiritual life.

The two men who were possessed began to shout at Christ. “What have you to do with us, Son of God? Have you come to destroy us?"  They were yelling and screaming at Christ.  They couldn't control their demeanor.  They lost their logic and reasoning. They have no control of their emotions. Despite all of this, they recognized Christ even though the people in that town did not. They also wanted Christ to leave their town.  

The demons also believed in God.  They also believed that they will be destroyed at an appointed time.  They started to panicked in the presence of Christ.  They were afraid that their lives will end. The demons wanted Christ to send them into the pigs.  In other words if they could not stay with the men, at least they could stay in that territory.  

It would be presumptuous if we think that we can be in dark places and still be strong enough not to allow it to affect us. Wrestling against evil spirits cannot be merely used with ordinary weapons. Using our own wit and knowledge may not be the most effective. Rather we must use spiritual tools of daily prayer, meditation upon God's word, spiritual direction, fasting, and alms-giving. The indwelling of the Holy Spirit in the soul can make it difficult for evil spirits to dwell.