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The Ministry of Healing
Meanwhile the demons, cast out from their human habitation,
have entered into the swine and driven them to destruction. The
keepers of the swine hurry away to publish the news, and the whole
population flock to meet Jesus. The two demoniacs have been
the terror of the country. Now these men are clothed and in their
right mind, sitting at the feet of Jesus, listening to His words, and
glorifying the name of Him who has made them whole. But those
who behold this wonderful scene do not rejoice. The loss of the
swine seems to them of greater moment than the deliverance of these
captives of Satan. In terror they throng about Jesus, beseeching Him
to depart from them, and He complies, taking ship at once for the
opposite shore.
“In him was life; and the life was the light of men.
And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness
comprehended it not.... But as many as received him, to
them gave he power to become the sons of God, even
to them that believe on his name.”
John 1:4-12
. “For
I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the
power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth.”
Romans 1:16
.
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Far different is the feeling of the restored demoniacs. They
desire the companionship of their Deliverer. In His presence they
feel secure from the demons that have tormented their lives and
wasted their manhood. As Jesus is about to enter the boat they keep
close to His side, kneel at His feet, and beg to remain near Him,
where they may listen to His words. But Jesus bids them go home
and tell what great things the Lord has done for them.
Here is a work for them to do—to go to a heathen home and tell
of the blessings they have received from Jesus. It is hard for them to
be separated from the Saviour. Great difficulties will beset them in
association with their heathen countrymen. And their long isolation
from society seems to have disqualified them for this work. But as
soon as He points out their duty, they are ready to obey.
Not only did they tell their own households and neighbors about
Jesus, but they went throughout Decapolis, everywhere declaring