Topical Bible: All Christians should be As Missionaries: Restored Demoniac

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Introduction

The concept of all Christians serving as missionaries finds a compelling illustration in the account of the restored demoniac, as recorded in the Synoptic Gospels. This narrative underscores the transformative power of Jesus Christ and the subsequent call to witness that transformation to others. The account of the demoniac, particularly in the Gospel of Mark, serves as a paradigm for the missionary zeal expected of all believers.

Biblical Account

The account of the restored demoniac is primarily found in Mark 5:1-20, with parallel passages in Matthew 8:28-34 and Luke 8:26-39. In Mark's Gospel, Jesus encounters a man possessed by a legion of demons in the region of the Gerasenes. The man lived among the tombs, exhibiting violent and uncontrollable behavior, a vivid depiction of the destructive power of evil.

Upon meeting Jesus, the demons within the man recognize His divine authority, pleading not to be tormented. Jesus commands the unclean spirits to leave the man, allowing them to enter a herd of pigs, which subsequently rush into the sea and drown. The man, now restored to his right mind, becomes a living testament to the power and mercy of Christ.

Missionary Commission

After his deliverance, the man desires to accompany Jesus, but the Lord instructs him otherwise. In Mark 5:19 , Jesus says, "Go home to your own people and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how He has had mercy on you." This directive highlights a fundamental principle of Christian mission: the call to witness begins at home, among one's own people.

The demoniac's transformation and subsequent commission illustrate that every believer, regardless of their past, is called to share the Gospel. The man's testimony in the Decapolis, a region of ten cities, exemplifies the ripple effect of personal evangelism. His account demonstrates that the mission field is not limited to distant lands but includes one's immediate community.

Theological Implications

The narrative of the restored demoniac emphasizes several key theological themes relevant to the missionary calling of all Christians:

1. Transformation through Christ: The demoniac's radical change from bondage to freedom underscores the transformative power of Jesus. This transformation is the foundation of the believer's testimony and mission.

2. Authority of Christ: The submission of the demons to Jesus' command highlights His supreme authority over spiritual forces. This authority empowers believers to proclaim the Gospel with confidence.

3. Personal Testimony: The demoniac's commission to share his account illustrates the power of personal testimony in evangelism. Each believer's unique experience of God's grace is a vital tool for witnessing.

4. Local Mission: Jesus' instruction to the man to begin his mission at home underscores the importance of local evangelism. The mission field includes one's family, friends, and community.

Practical Application

The account of the restored demoniac serves as a model for Christians today, encouraging them to embrace their role as missionaries in their own contexts. Believers are called to:

· Recognize their own transformation through Christ as a powerful testimony.
· Share their personal accounts of faith and deliverance with others.
· Engage in evangelism within their local communities, understanding that mission begins at home.
· Trust in the authority of Christ to overcome spiritual obstacles in their witness.

In conclusion, the restored demoniac's account is a vivid reminder that all Christians are called to be missionaries, sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with those around them.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Mark 5:20
And he departed, and began to publish in Decapolis how great things Jesus had done for him: and all men did marvel.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Acts XVI
... their having been scourged and imprisoned should follow them ... their heads," and the
Judge of all the earth ... The incidents justifies Christians in making use of ...
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