The Man Called Legion

Introduction:

A.     Sometimes life is difficult when there is only one problem to deal with. Imagine having to get a handle on multiple issues, all which demand your attention while trying to live a “normal” life.

B.     The story of the demon-possessed man is a unique lesson in and of itself.

C.     What can we learn from this man?

I. The Man Possessed of Demons

A.     This man was controlled by unclean spirits.

1.     Demon possession was a real condition in Jesus’ day.

2.     Had a legion of demons – v 9.  Roman legion had 6,000 men.

3.     He had super strength – vv 3-4

B.     This man might be said to represent all that is in the world.

C.     We are in a similar condition prior to our meeting the Lord.

1.     Lost and without any hope in the world – Eph. 2:11-13

2.     Although conditions are different one thing remains the same: many are still controlled by Satan’s influences.

a.      The one we obey is our master. Rom. 6:16

b.     He blinds men’s minds today. 2 Cor. 4:3-4

II.  His Meeting with Jesus

A.     It is interesting to note that the demons in this man recognized Jesus as the Son of God.

1.     The demons began to beg and plead with Jesus not to cast them out of the country. v 10

2.     Demons request Jesus to send them into swine. vv 11-13

B.     Jesus continues to help those that find themselves in trouble.

1.     He removes the sins of the world – Rom. 3:23; 1 Cor. 15:3; 2 Cor. 5:21

2.     He continues to rule in the affairs of this world. Gen. 3:14-15; Jn. 12:31-33; Col. 2:14-15

III.  His Condition After Meeting Jesus

A.     After his encounter with the Lord, this man is completely changed.

1.     He is now clothed and in his right mind. v 15

2.     He even wishes to continue with Jesus. v 18

a.      However, Jesus tells the man to go to his own people and proclaim to them what Jesus did. v 19

B.     We, too, can share the good news of what the Lord has done for us.

1.     The Lord encourages us to “Go” and tell others of the good things the Lord has done. v 20; Jn. 4:39-42

2.     He has called us out of darkness and into light. 1 Pet. 2:9-10

Conclusion

A.     Like the demon possessed man, we should be willing to proclaim to the world the good things the Lord has done in our lives.

B.     Will you let the Lord cleanse your soul this morning?