Miracles of Jesus
Lesson #3 The Maniac of Gadara (Mark 5:1-20)
During Jesus’ ministry he cast out many devils or unclean spirits. But this is probably one of the more well know story regarding Jesus casting our devils. From this miracle we will see Jesus’ authority and power over devils as well as learn some truths regarding devils and the behavior associated with them.
Characteristics of the Maniac of Gadara:
1) Lived among the tombs (verse 3)
- Satan has the power of Death (Hebrews 2:14-15) and his devils or unclean spirits like to be around the dead. When we see people that are fascinated or consumed with death it stands to reason there is an influence of devils with them.
2) Super human strength (verses 3-5)
- Just as God’s angels, who are ministering spirits (Hebrews 1:13-14), can do miracles and have great feats of strength, devils and unclean spirits are the same (Revelation 16:13-14).
3) He was always crying and cutting himself (verses 5-6)
- Cutting has become popular once again especially among the younger crowd today.
- It is connected with the Devil and worship of him (1 Kings 18:28).
4) He did not wear clothes (Luke 8:27)
- Today everyone wants to see how little they can get away with when it comes to clothes. This is nothing, Israel was naked when they worshiped the golden calf (Exodus 32:25).
Jesus’ interaction with the devils:
One of the first things to note is that devils or unclean spirits always know who Jesus was (verses 6-7). Jesus not only has authority over them but they also know that one day he will deal with them ().
When he cast the devils into the pigs note that they ran and drowned in the sea. From this we learn that devils or unclean spirits have a liking to water. They are connected with it (Ephesians 6:12) and it is no coincidence that some of the wicked cities in the world are cities that are on the coasts.
The Difference that Jesus makes:
After Jesus cast out the devils note the dramatic difference. He was sitting, clothed, and in his right mind (verse 15). He also has a desire to be with Jesus but Jesus tells him to return home and to tell other what he done for him. From this we learn a valuable lesson Jesus is the only way to have real and lasting change in your life.
Miracles of Jesus
Lesson #3 The Maniac of Gadara (Mark 5:1-20)
Handout
1) What do we hope to learn from this miracle that Jesus performed regarding the Maniac of Gadara?
2) What are the characteristics of the Maniac of Gadara?
3) What can we learn from Jesus’ interaction with the devils?
4) What is the result of Jesus casting out the devils from this man?