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The Truth About Angels
The Demoniacs of Gadara
In the early morning the Saviour and His companions came to
shore.... From some hiding place among the tombs, two madmen
rushed upon them as if to tear them in pieces. Hanging about these
men were parts of chains which they had broken in escaping from
confinement. Their flesh was torn and bleeding where they had cut
themselves with sharp stones. Their eyes glared out from their long
and matted hair; the very likeness of humanity seemed to have been
blotted out by the demons that possessed them, and they looked more
like wild beasts than like men.
The disciples and their companions fled in terror; but presently
they noticed that Jesus was not with them, and they turned to look for
Him. He was standing where they had left Him. He who had stilled
the tempest, who had before met Satan and conquered him, did not
flee before these demons. When the men, gnashing their teeth, and
foaming at the mouth, approached Him, Jesus raised that hand which
had beckoned the waves to rest, and the men could come no nearer.
They stood raging but helpless before Him.
With authority He bade the unclean spirits come out of them.
His words penetrated the darkened minds of the unfortunate men.
They realized dimly that One was near who could save them from the
tormenting demons. They fell at the Saviour’s feet to worship Him; but
when their lips were opened to entreat His mercy, the demons spoke
through them, crying vehemently, “What have I to do with Thee, Jesus,
Thou Son of God most high? I beseech Thee, torment me not.” ...
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Upon a mountainside not far distant a great herd of swine was
feeding. Into these the demons asked to be allowed to enter, and Jesus
suffered them. Immediately a panic seized the herd. They rushed
madly down the cliff, and, unable to check themselves upon the shore,
plunged into the lake, and perished.
Meanwhile, a marvelous change had come over the demoniacs.
Light had shone into their minds. Their eyes beamed with intelligence.
The countenances, so long deformed into the image of Satan, became
suddenly mild, the bloodstained hands were quiet, and with glad voices
the men praised God for their deliverance.... Now these men were
clothed and in their right mind, sitting at the feet of Jesus, listening