Luke 8:26-36

Luke 8:26-36

1. Let us mark the miserable condition of those over whom the devil reigns.
2. Let us mark the absolute power which the Lord Jesus Christ possesses over Satan.
3. Let us mark the wonderful change which Christ can work in Satan's slaves.

"Demoniacal possession of men's bodies may be comparatively rare. But many, unhappily, are the cases in which the devil appears completely to possess men's souls."

"To feel that we have ever near us an invisible spiritual enemy, laboring night and day to compass our destruction, would be enough to crush our every hope, if we did not know a Friend and Protector. Blessed be God! The Gospel reveals such a One. The Lord Jesus is stronger than that "strong man armed," who is ever warring against our souls."

"One thing, however, must never be forgotten. Striking and miraculous as this cure was, it is not really more wonderful than every case of decided conversion to God. Marvelous as the change was which appeared in this demoniac's condition when healed, it is not one whit more marvelous than the change which passes over every one who is born again, and turned from the power of Satan to God."

Questions:

1. Over 150 years ago, Ryle could say that in modern times, demon possession is rarely encountered. I would dare say we would agree, but does that mean we do not give the appropriate biblical weight to the great enemy of our souls?

2. Only if we understand the power of the roaring lion, can we rejoice and take refuge in the power of Christ over Him? Indeed, what does this truth of Christ’s power do for your heart?

3. How do we view conversion? It might not be as drastic as the man possessed by demons, but it is nothing less than a new creation in the hearts of men and women.