How should believers respond to spiritual oppression, based on Mark 5:12? Setting the Scene “Then they came to Jesus and saw the man who had been possessed by the legion of demons, sitting there, clothed and in his right mind; and they were afraid.” (Mark 5:15) The entire account (Mark 5:1-20) shows Jesus crossing the lake, confronting a man tortured by a vast demonic force, and freeing him with a word. Verse 12 captures the turning point: “So the demons begged Jesus, ‘Send us to the pigs, so that we may enter them.’” What We Observe in Mark 5:12 • The demons recognize Jesus’ supreme authority; they have to request permission. • They know their time in the man is over; eviction is certain. • They seek any host rather than face immediate confinement (Luke 8:31). • Jesus grants their request, displaying sovereignty even over their exit strategy. Truths About Spiritual Oppression • Demonic forces are real and personal (Mark 5:9). • They aim to maim, isolate, and destroy (v. 5; John 10:10). • They tremble before Jesus’ name and must obey His command (Mark 5:8; Philippians 2:10-11). • Christ’s presence is the turning point; freedom is anchored in Him, not in human strength. How Believers Should Respond • Stand in Christ’s finished victory. “The one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.” (1 John 4:4) • Submit, then resist. “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” (James 4:7) • Put on the full armor. “Put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes.” (Ephesians 6:11) • Use the Word as the weapon. Jesus answered every satanic temptation, “It is written…” (Matthew 4:4-10). • Command in Jesus’ name, not your own. “In My name they will drive out demons.” (Mark 16:17) • Maintain spiritual alertness. “Be sober-minded and alert. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion.” (1 Peter 5:8). • Cultivate a life of worship and gratitude; darkness cannot thrive where Christ is exalted (Acts 16:25-26). Practical Steps to Walk in Freedom 1. Confess and renounce any known sin or occult involvement (Acts 19:18-19). 2. Declare aloud the truth of the gospel and Christ’s authority. 3. Surround yourself with Scripture—read, memorize, speak it. 4. Stay close to supportive, Spirit-filled believers; isolation fuels oppression (Hebrews 10:24-25). 5. Keep short accounts with God: daily repentance and forgiveness (Ephesians 4:26-27). 6. Engage in consistent praise, thanksgiving, and communion; they reinforce Christ’s lordship in practical life. Encouragement for the Battle The same Jesus who silenced a legion lives in every believer today. His authority has not diminished; His Word has not aged. Stand firm, speak truth, and watch the darkness retreat. |
    |