Trey Jasso - The Man of the Gerasenes (Luke 8:26-39)

First Scripture Reading: Exodus 20:1-17; Romans 13:8-10

Second Scripture Reading: Acts 19:1-20

Sermon Text: Luke 8:26-39

We can’t overlook the two main ideas shown in this account of the power and love of Jesus. First, Christ is the one who battles the forces of evil on behalf of his people. Christ, as the covenant mediator for his people, delivers them from sin and death, but also is their assurance from the spiritual forces that lie in wait to devour them. Secondly, it is the eternal love of Christ for his people that moves him to deliver us and protect us. In love our Triune God elects, redeems, and finds all of those who belong to him. The love of Christ for his people is everlasting and faithful. Therefore, because he has first loved us, we are to respond by loving him.

1. How does this account bring a fuller answer to the question asked by the disciples in Luke 8:28, “Who then is this, that he commands even winds and water, and they obey him?”
2. Read Matthew 8:28 - 9:1. Compare and contrast some of the details between the two accounts.
3. Read Luke 8:28. What does the begging and pleading from the demon communicate about the power of Jesus?
4. Read Luke 8:31-33. The demons are sent into pigs and drowned. What role does water play in this narrative and what similarities do you see in the sacrament of baptism? Read Romans 6:1-4.
5. Read Luke 8:35-37. Why are the people afraid?
6. Read Luke 8:39. What do you see in this statement that emphasizes the divinity of Jesus?