Good morning, everyone. Welcome to the House of God and today’s Bible study. The title of our lesson is: From Tombs to Testimony. Our scripture text is found in Mark 5:1-20.
Opening Prayer
Lord, thank you for bringing us together today to feast on your life-giving Word. Holy Spirit breathe upon us as we partake. Let the entrance of your Word bring Light and dispel every darkness in Jesus’ name, amen.
Mark 5:1 states, “And they came over unto the other side of the sea, into the country of the Gadarenes.”
This simple transition verse carries deep spiritual significance when understood in its context.
After calming a violent storm on the Sea of Galilee, Jesus and His disciples arrive in a predominantly Gentile region known as the country of the Gadarenes. This area was part of the Decapolis, a federation of ten Gentile cities influenced heavily by Greek culture and pagan practices.
The fact that Jesus deliberately traveled here reveals His unwavering mission to reach the outcast, the overlooked, and those considered spiritually unclean by Jewish standards.
Crossing “to the other side” symbolizes Christ’s willingness to step into places others avoided—places marked by darkness, demonic oppression, and broken lives.
The storm that immediately preceded their arrival underscores the spiritual warfare surrounding this mission. True to his character and custom, Satan resisted Jesus’ advance, knowing that a powerful deliverance was about to take place.
Mark 5:1 sets the stage for the dramatic encounter with the demon-possessed man, showing that Jesus goes wherever a soul needs rescuing.
No distance is too great, no region too defiled, and no heart too bound for His saving power to reach.
Mark 5:2 records, “And when he was come out of the ship, immediately there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit.”
The word “immediately” shows that no sooner had Jesus stepped onto the shore than the forces of darkness confronted Him.
It emphasizes both the urgency of the need and the boldness of demonic power when resisting Christ’s presence.
The man who approached Jesus lived “among the tombs,” an environment associated with death, uncleanness, and hopelessness. According to Jewish law, touching a tomb would physically defile a person for seven days and require a specific purification process involving the ashes of a red heifer.
This man’s condition reveals the destructive intent of demonic influence: to isolate, dehumanize, and strip a person of peace, dignity, and purpose. He was living in a place no one else would go, further highlighting how far sin and spiritual bondage can take a person.
Yet the man came to Jesus. Even in deep bondage, the presence of Christ draws the broken toward deliverance. The demon’s control was great, but Jesus’ authority was greater.
This moment sets the stage for a complete transformation, showing that no level of spiritual darkness is too deep for Jesus to reach and redeem.
Mark 5:3 states, “Who had his dwelling among the tombs; and no man could bind him, no, not with chains.”
This verse further exposes the severity of the demonic bondage the man was under.
His “dwelling among the tombs” shows how far evil had driven him from normal human life. Instead of living in a home, participating in community, or enjoying relationships, he resided in a place associated with death and decay.
Demonic influence thrives in isolation and seeks to detach a person from everything that brings stability, fellowship, and hope.
The phrase “no man could bind him” highlights the frightening supernatural strength these unclean spirits produced. Society had attempted to restrain him, likely for his own protection and the safety of others, but human efforts consistently failed.
Chains—symbols of human control and restraint—were powerless against the forces controlling him.
This illustrates that spiritual bondage cannot be solved by physical means, psychological strategies alone, or human intervention apart from divine power.
Mark emphasizes the complete helplessness of the situation to magnify the greatness of Jesus’ authority. Where human strength reached its limit, Christ’s power was only beginning to be revealed.
This verse prepares the reader to see that only the Son of God can break the chains of spiritual darkness and restore a person to true freedom.
Mark 5:4 reads, “Because that he had been often bound with fetters and chains, and the chains had been plucked asunder by him, and the fetters broken in pieces: neither could any man tame him.”
This verse deepens our understanding of the man’s condition and the terrifying reality of demonic power. The community had repeatedly tried to restrain him, indicating that his behavior was dangerous and uncontrollable.
Yet each attempt ended in failure, as he tore apart chains and broke iron fetters with superhuman strength. This was not mere mental turmoil; it was spiritual bondage with physical manifestations.
The phrase “neither could any man tame him” shows that society had reached a point of total helplessness. No amount of force, discipline, counseling, or human strategy could change him.
He was beyond human control, illustrating the absolute inability of man-made solutions to overcome the kingdom of darkness. This truth sets the stage for Christ’s intervention, highlighting that spiritual deliverance can only come through divine power.
Mark intentionally portrays the man’s hopeless condition so that the reader can fully appreciate the miracle that is about to occur. When Jesus arrives, He steps into a situation where every human effort has failed—proving that His authority surpasses chains, demons, and every force that enslaves the human soul.
Mark 5:5 declares, “And always, night and day, he was in the mountains, and in the tombs, crying, and cutting himself with stones.”
This verse offers a heartbreaking picture of the depth of the man’s torment under demonic control.
The words “always, night and day” reveal the unrelenting nature of his suffering. There was no relief, no moment of peace, and no rest from the oppression that consumed him. His entire existence had become a cycle of agony.
He wandered “in the mountains and in the tombs,” showing that his life was marked by isolation and instability. The mountains symbolize wandering without purpose, while the tombs symbolize living among the dead—cut off from community, family, and hope, void of any usefulness.
This reflects the enemy’s intent to drive people away from everything that brings life and wholeness.
His crying indicates deep emotional and spiritual anguish. Though bound by demons, he was still a human soul in pain.
The self-harm described—“cutting himself with stones”—demonstrates how demonic influence leads a person to destroy themselves. This is a vivid picture of Satan’s desire to steal, kill, and destroy.
For example, every time a deliverance minister asks the demon manifesting through a demonised individual, “What is your plan to do with this person, the response is always, “I hate him/her. I want to kill him/her.”
Mark includes this verse to show the extent of the man’s misery so that the power of Christ’s deliverance will shine even brighter. Jesus steps into the darkest, most tormented places of the human heart and brings complete healing.
Mark 5:6 states, “But when he saw Jesus afar off, he ran and worshipped him.”
This verse reveals a remarkable truth about the authority of Christ and the spiritual reality within the demon-possessed man.
Even though he was controlled by unclean spirits, he recognized Jesus from a distance. The phrase “afar off” shows that the presence of Christ radiated authority so powerfully that demons sensed Him long before He arrived at the scene.
The man “ran” to Jesus, demonstrating both desperation and an unseen pull by the Holy Spirit toward the only One who could deliver him.
Though oppressed, part of him still longed for freedom, and the demons themselves were compelled to come before Christ. This shows that no demonic power can resist or hide from the authority of the Son of God.
The word “worshipped” here does not necessarily mean heartfelt devotion. It refers to bowing down in recognition of superior power. The demons within the man were forced to acknowledge Jesus’ supremacy, even if unwillingly. Darkness cannot stand upright in the presence of the Light of the world.
Mark 5:6 highlights that Jesus’ authority extends over the spiritual realm, compelling submission even from His greatest enemies. It also reveals a beautiful truth: no matter how bound a person may be, the presence of Christ can draw them near and begin the process of their deliverance.
Mark 5:7 says, “And cried with a loud voice, and said, What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of the most high God? I adjure thee by God, that thou torment me not.”
This verse reveals the inner conflict between the demon and the divine presence of Christ.
The loud cry was not the man speaking from his own heart, but the unclean spirit reacting in fear. Though society did not recognize Jesus for who He truly was, the demons instantly did. They addressed Him as “Jesus, thou Son of the most high God,” acknowledging His deity and supreme authority.
The question, “What have I to do with thee?” expresses their terror. They knew Jesus had complete power to judge and destroy them. Their plea, “torment me not,” shows that they expected punishment. Demons cannot stand in the presence of holiness, nor can they resist the authority of Christ.
The demons’ desperation reveals two important truths. First, spiritual forces of darkness fear Jesus far more than humans often realize. Second, the man’s deliverance was already certain. The moment Christ arrived, the powers of darkness understood their defeat.
This verse highlights Jesus’ divine identity, His absolute authority over the demonic realm, and the certainty of victory when He confronts evil.
Mark 5:8 states, “For he said unto him, Come out of the man, thou unclean spirit.”
This verse records the authoritative command of Jesus that initiated the man’s deliverance.
The wording reveals that Jesus had already spoken this command before the demon’s loud protest in the previous verse. Christ did not negotiate, plead, or argue with the unclean spirit—He simply issued a command. His word carried absolute divine authority, and the demons were powerless to resist it.
The command “Come out of the man” emphasizes Jesus’ compassion and intention. Though the man was deeply tormented, Jesus saw his true identity beneath the bondage.
To Christ, this was not merely a confrontation with evil—it was a rescue mission for a soul God valued. Jesus separated the man from the spirit that enslaved him, showing that no amount of darkness can erase a person’s worth in God’s eyes.
The phrase “thou unclean spirit” underscores the purity and holiness of Christ in contrast to the filth and corruption of demonic forces. Jesus confronted evil with flawless righteousness.
Mark includes this verse to highlight the simplicity and power of Jesus’ authority. When the Son of God speaks, demons must obey. This command marks the beginning of complete restoration for a man whom society had given up on.
Mark 5:9 says, “And he asked him, What is thy name? And he answered, saying, My name is Legion: for we are many.”
This verse reveals the terrifying depth of the man’s spiritual bondage. When Jesus asked for the name, it was not because He lacked knowledge—He is omniscient.
Rather, He asked so the extent of the demonic control could be exposed publicly, and to expose its identity to end its control. The answer, “My name is Legion,” is shocking. In Roman military terms, a legion consisted of roughly 4,200 to 6,000 soldiers.
While the number may not be literal, it indicates that this man was overwhelmed by a vast, organized force of demons.
The phrase “for we are many” confirms that this was not a single unclean spirit but a multitude working together to destroy the man. Their unified presence shows the strategic, destructive nature of demonic oppression. This man was not simply troubled—he was spiritually invaded on a massive scale.
Yet even a legion of demons could not resist Jesus. Their confession of being “many” only magnifies Christ’s power. One command from Him was enough to break what thousands of evil spirits could not withstand.
Mark 5:9 displays both the severity of the man’s condition and the immeasurable greatness of Jesus’ authority over the entire kingdom of darkness.
Mark 5:10 states, “And he besought him much that he would not send them away out of the country.”
Here, the demons, speaking through the man, begin pleading with Jesus. The word “besought” shows their desperation. Though they held tremendous power over the man, they were utterly powerless before Christ.
Their only option was to beg. This alone reveals the absolute authority of Jesus over all spiritual forces of darkness.
Their request “that he would not send them away out of the country” is significant. Demons prefer certain territories, environments, and conditions where their influence is strongest.
This Gentile region, marked by idolatry, uncleanness, and spiritual darkness, was a comfortable stronghold for them. They feared being forced to leave a place where they had long exercised control, and doubtlessly feared being punished by their superiors for losing territory.
Their words expose a spiritual reality: demonic forces seek to maintain footholds in specific regions, cultures, and lifestyles.
The demons understood that Jesus had the power to command their location as well as their presence. They could not choose where to go; they were entirely subject to Christ’s authority. Even a legion of demons bows before the Son of God.
Mark 5:10 reminds us that Jesus is Lord not only over individuals but over entire territories. When He arrives, the powers of darkness tremble, knowing their grip is about to be broken.
Mark 5:11 says, “Now there was there nigh unto the mountains a great herd of swine feeding.”
This verse may seem like a simple geographical detail, yet it plays a crucial role in the unfolding narrative.
The presence of a “great herd of swine” confirms that Jesus was ministering in a Gentile region, since pigs were considered unclean animals by Jewish law.
Jews would never have kept swine, so this detail underscores the spiritual environment: a land distant from God’s covenant people, steeped in pagan customs and practices.
The swine also serve as a visible object lesson of the unclean spiritual forces at work in the region. Just as pigs symbolize uncleanness, so the demons tormenting the man reflected spiritual corruption and impurity.
Their nearness to the man highlights how darkness had penetrated both the land and its inhabitants.
Additionally, the large number of pigs—described as a “great herd”—mirrors the large number of demons inhabiting the man. This sets the stage for what will soon become a dramatic demonstration of Jesus’ authority over both visible and invisible realms.
Mark 5:11 prepares the reader to see Christ’s power displayed in a way that impacts not only the man but the entire community, showing that no environment is beyond His reach.
Mark 5:12 says, “And all the devils besought him, saying, Send us into the swine, that we may enter into them.”
This verse shows the complete submission of the demons to Jesus’ authority.
A moment earlier, they tormented the man without mercy; now they beg for permission, unable to act without Christ’s command. Their request to enter the swine reveals their destructive nature.
If they could no longer ruin the man, they sought another vessel to continue their corrupt work. It also highlights that demons prefer to inhabit something rather than be left without a place to influence.
Their desire for the swine further confirms the unclean nature of both the region and their intentions. Above all, this verse demonstrates that even a legion of demons is powerless before Jesus and must obey His every word.
Mark 5:13 says, “And forthwith Jesus gave them leave. And the unclean spirits went out, and entered into the swine: and the herd ran violently down a steep place into the sea… and were choked in the sea.”
This verse records the dramatic outcome of Jesus’ command. By granting permission, Jesus shows that He alone controls what demons can or cannot do.
The spirits immediately left the man, proving the irresistible power of Christ’s word. When they entered the swine, the entire herd rushed into the sea and drowned, revealing the true intention of the demons—destruction.
What they had sought to do to the man, they now carried out on the pigs. This event visibly demonstrates the reality of spiritual warfare and the delivering power of Christ, who rescues individuals while exposing the destructive nature of evil.
Mark 5:14 says, “And they that fed the swine fled, and told it in the city, and in the country. And they went out to see what it was that was done.”
This verse describes the immediate reaction of the persons tending the pigs who witnessed the dramatic destruction of the herd.
Terrified and overwhelmed, they ran to spread the news throughout the region. Their fear shows how powerful and astonishing the deliverance truly was. No one had ever seen demons driven out by a single command, nor had they seen a herd of pigs violently rush into the sea.
Their report caused people from both the city and countryside to come and investigate. This sets the stage for the public revelation of Christ’s authority, showing that His works could not be hidden—His power demanded attention and stirred the entire community.
Mark 5:15 says, “And they come to Jesus, and see him that was possessed with the devil, and had the legion, sitting, and clothed, and in his right mind: and they were afraid.”
This verse reveals the complete transformation produced by Jesus’ power. Moments earlier, the man was violent, uncontrollable, naked, and tormented. Now he is sitting—peaceful, no longer restless.
This man is clothed—restored to dignity. He is in his right mind—delivered from confusion and bondage. This dramatic change is undeniable evidence of Christ’s authority.
Ironically, the people were more afraid of this miracle than of the demons. The supernatural calm produced by Jesus disturbed them more than the chaos they had grown accustomed to.
This reaction shows how the presence of God exposes hearts, challenges comfort zones, and confronts unbelief with undeniable truth.
Mark 5:16 says, “And they that saw it told them how it befell to him that was possessed with the devil, and also concerning the swine.”
This verse shows the eyewitnesses explaining the full story to the crowd that had come to investigate.
They reported two things: the miraculous deliverance of the demon-possessed man and the destruction of the swine. Their testimony confirmed that the transformation was real—this was the same man who had been uncontrollable, violent, and tormented by a legion of demons.
At the same time, the loss of the pigs made the event costly for the region economically. This combination of an undeniable miracle and significant financial impact forced the people to confront the reality of Jesus’ power.
Their decision in the following verse will reveal their true priorities: spiritual deliverance or material comfort.
Mark 5:17 says, “And they began to pray him to depart out of their coasts.”
Instead of rejoicing over the man’s deliverance, the people begged Jesus to leave. Their reaction reveals a tragic truth: they were more disturbed by Christ’s power than by the demonic bondage that had plagued their region for years.
The loss of the swine likely affected their economy, and the miracle challenged their comfort, priorities, and spiritual blindness.
Confronted with the undeniable presence of God, they chose fear over faith and profit over transformation. Jesus never forces Himself where He is unwelcome, so He prepared to leave.
This verse highlights how some hearts reject the Savior not because He lacks power, but because His presence exposes sin, disrupts comfort, and demands surrender.
This is reminiscent of when Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead. Some of the people wanted to put Lazarus back to death because his resurrection led many to believe in Jesus. How terminally ill a soul must be and how dark of heart to engender such deplorable deliberation.
Mark 5:18 says, “And when he was come into the ship, he that had been possessed with the devil prayed him that he might be with him.”
As Jesus prepared to leave the region, the delivered man approached Him with a heartfelt request.
After experiencing such deep torment and then complete freedom, he naturally longed to remain close to the One who rescued him. His desire “to be with Him” reflects genuine discipleship—an immediate, grateful response to Christ’s transforming power.
Unlike the fearful crowd who begged Jesus to leave, this man begged to stay near Him. His plea reveals the dramatic change in his heart: from isolation and despair to devotion and longing for fellowship with the Savior.
This verse highlights that true deliverance produces a desire for Christ above anything else.
Mark 5:19 says, “Howbeit Jesus suffered him not, but saith unto him, Go home to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee.”
Though the man longed to follow Jesus physically, the Lord had a different mission for him. Jesus did not refuse him out of rejection but redirected him toward a powerful purpose.
His testimony would reach people who knew his past and could clearly see the miracle of his transformation. Jesus commanded him to declare not only the deliverance he received but also the compassion behind it.
This shows that evangelism begins at home—sharing with those closest to us what Christ has done. Through this man, Jesus established the first missionary to the Gentile region of Decapolis, spreading light where darkness once ruled.
Mark 5:20 says, “And he departed, and began to publish in Decapolis how great things Jesus had done for him: and all men did marvel.”
The delivered man obeyed immediately, becoming a powerful witness throughout the region of Decapolis—a cluster of ten Gentile cities.
His testimony carried extraordinary weight because everyone was aware of his past. The one who had lived among tombs, terrifying the community, now walked through the streets proclaiming the mercy and power of Jesus.
He had no theological training, but he had a story—a living demonstration of Christ’s authority. As he shared what the Lord had done, the people “marveled,” recognizing that only God could accomplish such a transformation.
This verse highlights the impact of a changed life and shows how one personal testimony can stir an entire region toward the reality of Christ.
Praise God. Let’s close with prayer
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father,
We thank You for the powerful lesson we have studied today. Thank You for showing us through the story of the man with the legion of demons that no bondage is too strong for Jesus to break, no darkness is too deep for His light to reach, and no life is too damaged for His restoring power.
Lord, we praise You for the compassion of Christ, who crossed the stormy sea, stepped into a place of darkness, and set a tormented soul free.
Help us remember that the same Jesus who delivered that man is the Jesus who walks with us today—able to calm every storm, conquer every fear, and restore every broken area of our lives.
May we never respond like the fearful crowd, pushing Him away, but like the delivered man, desiring to be close to Him and willing to share what You have done for us.
Fill our hearts with gratitude, boldness, and a renewed desire to proclaim Your greatness. Use our lives as testimonies of Your mercy and power.
Thank You for being the God who saves, heals, and transforms.
In Jesus’ mighty name we pray, Amen.
Thank you for your attention. You are blessed in Jesus’ name!
More grace,
Michael Wilkerson 11-23-2025
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