How should believers respond to witnessing Jesus' transformative power today? The Setting: A Dramatic Display of Power “Meanwhile, those who had seen it reported how the demon-possessed man had been healed.” (Luke 8:36) • Jesus restores a tormented man to wholeness—calm, clothed, and in his right mind (v. 35). • The eyewitnesses “reported” (Greek: diēgēsanto—fully related, explained in detail) what Jesus had done. Their reaction sets the pattern for us today. Recognize the Authority Behind the Miracle • Luke emphasizes that the man “had been healed” (perfect passive)—the change was complete and lasting. • This power belongs uniquely to Jesus: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.” (Matthew 28:18) • His authority is not diminished with time; “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8). Respond with Awe, Not Fearful Distance • The Gerasenes begged Jesus to leave (Luke 8:37). Confronted by holy power, they chose distance. • Believers are called instead to draw near: – “Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence.” (Hebrews 4:16) – “Come and see the works of God.” (Psalm 66:5) • Awe should pull us closer, deepening worship and dependence. Report What You Have Witnessed • Eyewitnesses “reported” (Luke 8:36); the healed man was told, “Return home and describe what God has done for you.” (Luke 8:39). • Practical outworking today: – Share personal testimonies of answered prayer and changed lives. – Celebrate corporate stories within your church family. – Use every medium—conversation, social media, letters—to highlight Christ’s work. Rejoice in the Restoration • Transformation is cause for joy: “Rejoice with me, for I have found my lost sheep.” (Luke 15:6). • Cultivate gratitude: – Thank God publicly in gatherings (Psalm 107:2). – Sing songs that recount His mighty acts (Ephesians 5:19). – Keep a written record of God’s interventions to fuel ongoing praise. Redirect Fear into Faith-Filled Obedience • The crowd’s fear led to rejection; the restored man’s faith led to obedience (Luke 8:38-39). • Today, answer His power with: – Immediate submission to His Word (John 14:15). – Abandonment of former chains—habits, relationships, influences that oppose His lordship (Galatians 5:1). – Willingness to go wherever He sends (Isaiah 6:8). Remember the Spiritual Battle Continues • Demons depart at Christ’s command, yet spiritual warfare persists (Ephesians 6:12). • Equip yourself: – Put on the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:13-18). – Stand firm in the victory already secured at the cross (Colossians 2:15). – Pray for deliverance and protection over others (James 5:16). Reaffirm Hope for Every Captive • No case is hopeless—if Legion can be freed, anyone can. • Trust Christ’s mission statement: “He has sent Me to proclaim liberty to the captives.” (Luke 4:18). • Maintain expectancy in evangelism and intercession, knowing He “is able to save completely those who draw near to God through Him.” (Hebrews 7:25). Result: The Ripple Effect of Transformed Lives • One healed man became a missionary to the Decapolis (Mark 5:20). • Our transformed lives likewise point others to Christ’s power, multiplying faith and praise “to the glory of God” (Philippians 1:11). |
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