Luke Chapter 8
Section 43. The Women Who Accompanied Jesus, Luke 8:1-3
And it came to pass afterward, that he went throughout every city and village, preaching and showing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God: and the twelve were with him, And certain women, which had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities, Mary called Magdalene, out of whom went seven devils, And Joanna the wife of Cuza Herod's steward, and Susanna, and many others, which ministered unto him of their substance.
Let us mark, in these verses — our Lord Jesus Christ's unwearied diligence in doing good. We read that "He went throughout every city and village, preaching and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God." We know the reception that He met with in many places. We know that while some believed — many did not believe. But man's unbelief did not move our Lord, or hinder His working. He was always "doing His Father's business." As short as His earthly ministry was in point of duration — it was long when we consider the work that it comprised.
Let the diligence of Christ be an example to all Christians. Let us follow in His steps — however far we may come short of His perfection. Like Him, let us labor to do good in our day and generation, and to leave the world a holier world than we found it. It is not in vain that the Scripture says expressly, "He who abides in Him — ought himself also so to walk even as He walked." (1 John 2:6.)
Time is undoubtedly short. But much is to be done with time — if it is well economized and properly arranged. Few have an idea how much can be done in twelve hours — if men will stick to their business and avoid idleness and frivolity. Then let us, like our Lord, be diligent, and "redeem the time."
Time is undoubtedly short. But it is the only season in which Christians can do any active work of mercy. In the world to come — there will be no ignorant to instruct, no mourners to comfort, no spiritual darkness to enlighten, no distress to relieve, no sorrow to minister to. Whatever work we do of this kind — must be done on this side of the grave.
Let us awake to a sense of our individual responsibility. Souls are perishing — and time is flying! Let us resolve, by God's grace — to do something for God's glory before we die. Once more let us remember our Lord's example — and, like Him, be diligent and "redeem the time."
Let us mark, secondly, in these verses — the power of the grace of God, and the constraining influence of the love of Christ. We read that among those who followed our Lord in his journeyings, were "certain women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities."
We can well imagine that the difficulties these holy women had to face in becoming Christ's disciples, were neither few nor small. They had their full share of the contempt and scorn which was poured on all followers of Jesus by the Scribes and Pharisees. They had, besides — many a trial from the harsh talk and hard usage which any Jewish woman who thought for herself about religion, would probably have to undergo.
But none of these things moved them. Grateful for mercies received at our Lord's hands — they were willing to endure much for His sake. Strengthened inwardly, by the renewing power of the Holy Spirit — they were enabled to cleave to Jesus and not give way. And nobly they did cleave to Him to the very end!
It was not a woman, who sold the Lord for thirty pieces of silver. They were not women who forsook the Lord in the garden, and fled. It was not a woman, who denied Him three times in the high priest's house.
But they were women who wailed and lamented when Jesus was led forth to be crucified. They were women who stood to the last by the cross. And they were women who were first to visit the grave "where the Lord lay." Great indeed is the power of the grace of God!
Let the recollection of these women encourage all the daughters of Adam who read of them — to take up the cross and to follow Christ. Let no sense of weakness, or fear of falling away — keep them back from a decided profession of religion.
The mother of a large family, with limited means — may tell us that she has no time for religion. The wife of an ungodly husband — may tell us that she dares not take up religion. The young daughter of worldly parents — may tell us that it is impossible for her to have any religion. The maid-servant in the midst of unconverted companions — may tell us that in her place, a person cannot follow religion.
But they are all wrong — quite wrong! With Christ nothing is impossible. Let them think again, and change their minds. Let them begin boldly in the strength of Christ — and trust Him for the consequences. The Lord Jesus never changes. He who enabled "many women" to serve Him faithfully while He was on earth — can enable women to serve Him, glorify Him, and be His disciples at the present day.
Let us mark lastly, in these verses — the peculiar privilege which our Lord grants to His faithful followers. We read that those who accompanied Him in His journeyings, "These women were ministering to them out of their own substance." Of course He did not need their help. "All the beasts of the forest were his, and the cattle upon a thousand hills." (Psalm 50:10.) That mighty Savior who could multiply a few loaves and fish into food for thousands — could have called forth food from the earth for His own sustenance, if He had thought fit. But He did not do so, for two reasons.
One reason was, that He would show us that He was man like ourselves in all things, sin only excepted — and that He lived a life of faith in His Father's providence.
The other reason was, that by allowing His followers to minister to Him — He might prove their love, and test their regard for Himself. True love will count it a pleasure to give anything to the object loved. False love will often talk and profess much — but do and give nothing at all.
This matter of "ministering to Christ" opens up a most important train of thought, and one which we shall do well to consider. The Lord Jesus Christ is continually providing His Church at the present day. No doubt it would be easy for Him to convert the Chinese or Hindus in a moment, and to call grace into being with a word — just as He created light on the first day of this world's existence.
But He does not do so. He is pleased to work by means. He condescends to use the agency of missionaries, and the foolishness of man's preaching — in order to spread His Gospel. And by so doing, He is continually proving the faith and zeal of the churches. He lets Christians be fellow workers with Him — that He may manifest who has a will to "minister" — and who has none.
He lets the spread of the Gospel be carried on by subscriptions, contributions, and religious Societies — that He may manifest who are the covetous and unbelieving — and who are the truly "rich towards God." In short, the visible Church of Christ may be divided into two great parties: those who "minister" unto Christ — and those who do not.
May we all remember this great truth, and test our own selves! While we live, we are all upon our trial. Our lives are continually showing whose we are, and whom we serve — whether we love Christ, or whether we love the world. Happy are those who know something of ministering to Christ out of their own substance! It is a thing which can still be done, though we do not see Him with our eyes. Those words which describe the proceedings of the Judgment day, are very solemn: "I was hungry — and you gave me no food. I was thirsty — and you gave me nothing to drink." (Matthew 25:42.)
Section 44. The Parable of the Sower, Luke 8:4-15
And when much people were gathered together, and were come to him out of every city, he spoke by a parable: A sower went out to sow his seed: and as he sowed, some fell by the way side; and it was trodden down, and the birds of the air devoured it. And some fell upon a rock; and as soon as it was sprung up, it withered away, because it lacked moisture. And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprang up with it, and choked it. And other fell on good ground, and sprang up, and bare fruit an hundredfold. And when he had said these things, he cried, He who has ears to hear, let him hear. And his disciples asked him, saying, What might this parable be? And he said, Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables; that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand. Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. Those by the way side are they that hear; then comes the devil, and takes away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved. They on the rock are they, which, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, which for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away. And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection. But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience.
The parable of the sower which is contained in these verses — is reported more frequently than any parable in the Bible. It is a parable of universal application. The things it relates are continually going on in every congregation to which the Gospel is preached. The four kinds of hearts it describes, are to be found in every assembly which hears the word. These circumstances should make us always read the parable with a deep sense of its importance. We should say to ourselves, as we read it, "This concerns me! My heart is to be seen in this parable. I, too, am here!"
The passage itself requires little explanation. In fact, the meaning of the whole picture is so fully explained by our Lord — that no exposition of man can throw much additional light on it.
The parable is preeminently a parable of caution — and caution about a most important subject — the way of hearing the word of God. It was meant to be a warning to the apostles — not to expect too much from hearers. It was meant to be a warning to all ministers of the Gospel — not to look for too great results from their sermons. It was meant, not least, to be a warning to hearers — to take heed how they hear.
Preaching is an ordinance of which the value can never be overrated in the Church of Christ. But it should never be forgotten, that there must not only be good preaching — but good hearing.
The first caution that we learn from the parable of the sower — is to beware of the devil when we hear the Word. Our Lord tells us that the hearts of some hearers are like "the WAYSIDE." The seed of the Gospel is plucked away from them by the devil almost as soon as it is sown. It does not sink down into their consciences. It does not make the least impression on their minds.
That malicious devil is unwearied in his efforts to do us harm. He is ever watching for our halting — and seeking occasion to destroy our souls. But nowhere perhaps is the devil so active, as in a congregation of Gospel-hearers! Nowhere does he labor so hard to stop the progress of that which is good — and to prevent men and women being saved. From him, come . . .
wandering thoughts — and roving imaginations;
listless minds — and dull memories;
sleepy eyes — and fidgety nerves;
weary ears — and distracted attention.
In all these things, Satan has a great hand.
People wonder where they come from, and marvel how it is that they find sermons so dull — and remember them so badly! They forget the parable of the sower. They forget the devil.
Let us take heed that we are not wayside hearers. Let us beware of the devil. We shall always find him at church! He never stays away from public ordinances. Let us remember this — and be upon our guard. Heat and cold, and rain and snow — are often dreaded by church-goers, and alleged as reasons for not going to church. But there is one enemy whom they ought to fear more than all these things together — that enemy is the devil!The second caution that we learn from the parable of the sower — is to beware of resting on mere temporary impressions when we have heard the word. Our Lord tells us that the hearts of some hearers are like ROCKY ground. The seed of the Word springs up immediately, as soon as they hear it, and bears a crop of joyful impressions, and pleasurable emotions. But these impressions, unhappily, are only on the surface — there is no deep and abiding work done in their souls. And hence, as soon as the scorching heat of temptation or persecution begins to be felt — the little bit of religion which they seemed to have attained, withers and vanishes away!
Feelings, no doubt, fill a most important office in our personal Christianity. Without them there can be no saving religion. Hope, and joy, and peace, and confidence, and resignation, and love, and fear — are things which must be felt, if they really exist.
But it must never be forgotten that there are religious affections which are spurious and false — and spring from nothing better than fleshly excitement. It is quite possible to feel great pleasure, or deep alarm, under the preaching of the Gospel — and yet to be utterly destitute of the grace of God. The tears of some hearers of sermons, and the extravagant delight of others — are no certain marks of conversion. We may be warm admirers of favorite preachers — and yet remain nothing better than stony-ground hearers.
Nothing should content us but a deep, humbling, self-mortifying work of the Holy Spirit — and a heart-union with Christ.
The third caution contained in the parable of the sower — is to beware of the cares of this world. Our Lord tells us that the hearts of many hearers of the Word are like thorny ground. The seed of the Word, when sown upon them — is choked by the multitude of other things, by which their affections are occupied. They have no objection to the doctrines and requirements of the Gospel. They even wish to believe and obey them. But they allow earthly things to get such hold upon their minds — that they leave no room for the Word of God to do its work. And hence it follows that however many sermons they hear — they seem nothing bettered by them. A weekly process of truth-stifling goes on within them. They bring no fruit to perfection.
The things of this world, form one of the greatest dangers which beset a Christian's path. The money, the pleasures, the daily business of the world — are so many traps to catch souls! Thousands of things, which in themselves are innocent, become, when followed to excess — little better than soul-poisons, and helps to Hell.
Open sin is not the only thing that ruins souls. In the midst of our families, and in the pursuit of our lawful callings — we have need to be on our guard. Unless we watch and pray — these temporal things may rob us of Heaven, and smother every sermon we hear. We may live and die as thorny-ground hearers!
The last caution contained in the parable of the sower — is to beware of being content with any religion which does not bear FRUIT in our lives. Our Lord tells us that the hearts of those who hear the word aright, are like GOOD ground. The seed of the Gospel sinks down deeply into their wills — and produces practical results in their faith and lives. They not only hear with pleasure — but act with decision. They repent. They believe. They obey.
Forever let us bear in mind, that this is the only religion that saves souls. Outward profession of Christianity — and the formal use of Church ordinances and sacraments, never yet gave man a solid hope in life, or peace in death, or rest in the world beyond the grave. There must be fruits of the Spirit in our hearts and lives — or else the Gospel is preached to us in vain. Only those who bear such fruits — shall be found at Christ's right hand in the day of His appearing.
Let us leave the parable with a deep sense of the danger and responsibility of all hearers of the Gospel. There are four ways in which we may hear — and of these four, only one is right. There are three kinds of hearers whose souls are in imminent peril. How many of these three kinds are to be found in every congregation! There is only one class of hearers which is right in the sight of God. And what are we? Do we belong to that one?
Finally, let us leave the parable with a solemn recollection of the duty of every faithful preacher to separate his congregation — and give to each class his portion. The clergyman who ascends his pulpit every Sunday, and addresses his congregation as if he thought that each one was going to Heaven — is surely not doing his duty to God or man. His preaching is flatly contradictory to the parable of the sower!
Section 45. A Lamp on a Stand, Luke 8:16-21
No man, when he has lighted a candle, covers it with a vessel, or puts it under a bed; but sets it on a candlestick, that they which enter in may see the light. For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest; neither anything hid, that shall not be known and come abroad. Take heed therefore how you hear: for whoever has, to him shall be given; and whoever has not, from him shall be taken even that which he seems to have. Then came to him his mother and his brethren, and could not come at him for the press. And it was told him by certain which said, Your mother and your brethren stand without, desiring to see you. And he answered and said unto them, My mother and my brethren are these which hear the word of God, and do it.
These verses form a practical application of the famous parable of the sower. They are intended to nail and clench in our minds — the mighty lessons which that parable contains. They deserve the especial attention of all true-hearted hearers of the Gospel of Christ.
We learn, firstly, from these verses — that spiritual knowledge ought to be diligently used. Our Lord tells us that spiritual knowledge is like a lighted candle — utterly useless, when covered with a bushel, or put under a bed. It is only useful when set upon a candlestick, and placed where it can be made serviceable to the needs of men.
When we hear this lesson, let us first think of OURSELVES. The Gospel which we possess was not given us only to be admired, talked of, and professed — but to be practiced. It was not meant merely to reside in our intellect, and memories, and tongues — but to be seen is our lives. Christianity is a talent committed to our charge, and one which brings with it great responsibility. We are not in darkness like the heathen. A glorious light is put before us. Let us take heed that we use it. While we have the light — let us walk in the light. (John 12:35.)
But let us not only think of ourselves — let us also think of OTHERS. There are millions in the world who have no spiritual light at all. They are without God, without Christ, and without hope. (Ephesians 2:12.) Can we do nothing for them? There are thousands around us, in our own land, who are unconverted and dead in sins, seeing nothing and knowing nothing aright. Can we do nothing for them? These are questions to which every true Christian ought to find an answer.
We should strive, in every way, to spread our religion. The highest form of selfishness, is that of the man who is content to go to Heaven alone. The truest charity, is to endeavor to share with others, every spark of religious light that we possess ourselves, and so to hold up our own candle that it may give light to everyone around us. Happy is that soul, which, as soon as it receives light from heaven — begins to think of others as well as itself! No candle which God lights, was ever meant to burn alone!
We learn, secondly, from these verses — the great importance of right hearing. The words of our Lord Jesus Christ ought to impress that lesson deeply on our hearts. He says, "Take heed how you hear!"
The degree of benefit which men receive from all the means of grace — depends entirely on the way in which they use them.
Private PRAYER lies at the very foundation of religion. Yet the mere formal repetition of a set of words, when "the heart is far away" — does good to no man's soul.
Reading the BIBLE is essential to the attainment of sound Christian knowledge. Yet the mere formal reading of so many chapters as a task and duty, with out a humble desire to be taught of God — is little better than a waste of time.
Just as it is with praying and Bible reading — so it is with hearing the Word preached. It is not enough that we go to Church and hear sermons. We may do so for fifty years, and "be nothing bettered, but rather worse." "Take heed," says our Lord, "how you hear!"
Would anyone know how to hear aright? Then let him lay to heart three simple rules:
For one thing, we must hear with FAITH — believing implicitly that every word of God is true, and shall stand forever. The Word in old time did not profit the Jews, "not being mixed with faith in those who heard it." (Hebrews 4:2.)
For another thing, we must hear with REVERENCE — remembering constantly that the Bible is the book of God. This was the habit of the Thessalonians. They received Paul's message, "not as the word of men — but the Word of God." (1 Thessalonians 2:13.)
Above all, we must bear with PRAYER — praying for God's blessing before the sermon is preached, and praying for God's blessing again when the sermon is over.
Here lies the grand defect of the hearing of many. They ask no blessing — and so they have none. The sermon passes through their minds like water through a leaky vessel, and leaves nothing behind!
Let us bear these rules in mind every Sunday morning, before we go to hear the Word of God preached. Let us not rush into God's presence in a careless, reckless, and unprepared manner — as if it did not matter in what way such work was done. Let us carry with us faith, reverence, and prayer. If these three are our companions — then we shall hear with profit, and return with praise.
We learn, finally, from these verses — the great privileges of those who hear the Word of God and DO it. Our Lord Jesus Christ declares that He regards them as his "mother and his brethren."
The man who hears the Word of God, and does it — is the true Christian. He hears the call of God to repent and be converted — and he obeys it. He ceases to do evil — and learns to do good. He puts off the old man — and puts on the new. He hears the call of God to believe on Jesus Christ for justification — and he obeys it. He forsakes his own righteousness — and confesses his need of a Savior. He receives Christ crucified as his only hope — and counts all things loss for the knowledge of Him. He hears the call of God to be holy — and he obeys it. He strives to mortify the deeds of his body — and to walk after the Spirit. He labors to lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily besets him. This is true vital Christianity. All men and women who are of this character, are true Christians.
The TROUBLES of all who "hear the word of God and do it" are neither few nor small. The world, the flesh, and the devil continually vex them. They often groan, being burdened. (2 Corinthians 5:4.) They often find the cross heavy, and the way to Heaven rough and narrow. They often feel disposed to cry with Paul, "O wretched man that I am! Who shall deliver me from this body of death?" (Romans 7:24.)
Let all such take comfort in the words of our Lord Jesus Christ which we are now considering. Let them remember that the Son of God himself regards them as his own near relations! Let them not heed the laughter, and mockery, and persecution of this world. The woman of whom Christ says, "She is my mother" — and the man of whom Christ says, "He is my brother," have no cause to be ashamed!
Section 46. Jesus Calms the Storm, Luke 8:22-25
Now it came to pass on a certain day, that he went into a ship with his disciples: and he said unto them, Let us go over unto the other side of the lake. And they launched forth. But as they sailed he fell asleep: and there came down a storm of wind on the lake; and they were filled with water, and were in jeopardy. And they came to him, and awoke him, saying, Master, master, we perish. Then he arose, and rebuked the wind and the raging of the water: and they ceased, and there was a calm. And he said unto them, Where is your faith? And they being afraid wondered, saying one to another, What manner of man is this! for he commands even the winds and water, and they obey him.
The event in our Lord's life described in these verses is related three times in the Gospels. Matthew, Mark, and Luke — were all inspired to record it. This circumstance should teach us the importance of the event, and should make us "give the more heed" to the lessons it contains.
We see, firstly, in these verses — that our Lord Jesus Christ was really man as well as God. We read that as he sailed over the Lake of Gennesaret in a ship with his disciples, "he fell asleep." Sleep, we must be all aware, is one of the conditions of our natural constitution as human beings. Angels and demons require neither food nor refreshment. But flesh and blood, to keep up a healthy existence — must eat, and drink, and sleep. If the Lord Jesus could be weary, and need rest — then He must have had two natures in one person — a human nature as well as a divine nature.
The truth now before us is full of deep consolation and encouragement for all true Christians. The one Mediator, in whom we are bid to trust — has Himself been "partaker of flesh and blood." The mighty High Priest, who is living for us at God's right hand — has had personal experience of all the sinless infirmities of the body. He has himself hungered, and thirsted, and suffered pain. He has himself endured weariness, and sought rest in sleep.
Let us pour out our hearts before him with freedom — and tell Him our least troubles without reserve. He who made atonement for us on the cross — is one who "can be touched with the feeling of our infirmities." (Hebrews 4:15.) To be weary of working for God is sinful, but to be wearied and worn in doing God's work is no sin at all. Jesus himself was weary, and Jesus slept.
We see, secondly, in these verses — what fears and anxiety may assault the hearts of true disciples of Christ. We read, that "when a storm of wind came down on the lake," and the boat in which our Lord was sailing was filled with water, and in jeopardy, His companions were greatly alarmed. "They came to Him and awoke Him, saying: Master, Master, we are going to perish!"
They forgot, for a moment, their Master's never-failing care for them in time past. They forgot that so long as they were with Him — they must be safe, whatever happened. It is only too true that sight, and sense, and feeling — make men very poor theologians.
Facts like these are sadly humbling to the pride of human nature. It ought to lower our pride and high thoughts, to see what a poor creature is man, even at his best estate — but facts like these are deeply instructive. They teach us what to watch and pray against in our own hearts. They teach of what we must make up our minds to find in other Christians. We must be moderate in our expectations. We must not suppose that men cannot be believers — if they sometimes exhibit great weakness. We must not think that men have no grace — because they are sometimes overwhelmed with fears. Even Peter, James, and John, could cry, "Master, Master, we are going to perish!"
We see, thirdly, in these verses — how great is the power of our Lord Jesus Christ. We read that when His disciples awoke Him in the storm, "He arose, and rebuked the wind, and the raging of the waters — and they ceased, and there was a calm." This was, no doubt, a mighty miracle. It needed the power of Him who brought the flood on the earth in the days of Noah, and in due season took it away — who divided the Red Sea and the river Jordan into two parts, and made a path for His people through the waters — who brought the locusts on Egypt by an east wind, and by a west wind swept them away.
No power short of this, could in a moment turn a storm into a calm. "To speak to the winds and waves" is a common proverb for attempting that which is impossible. But here we see Jesus speaking — and at once the winds and waves obey!
As man He had slept.
As God He stilled the storm.It is a blessed and comfortable thought, that all this almighty power of our Lord Jesus Christ, is engaged on behalf of His believing people. He has undertaken to save each one of them to the uttermost — and He is "mighty to save."
The trials of His people are often many and great. The devil never ceases to make war against them. The rulers of this world frequently persecute them. The very heads of the Church, who ought to be tender shepherds — are often bitterly opposed to the truth as it is in Jesus.
Yet, notwithstanding all this — Christ's people shall never be entirely forsaken. Though severely harassed — they shall not be destroyed. Though cast down — they shall not be cast away. At the darkest times — let true Christians rest in the thought, that "greater is He who is for them, than all who are against them."
The winds and waves of political and ecclesiastical trouble may beat fiercely over them, and all hope may seem taken away. But still let them not despair. There is One living for them in Heaven, who can make these winds and waves to cease in a moment! The true Church, of which Christ is the Head, shall never perish! Its glorious Head is almighty, and lives for evermore, and His believing members shall all live, also, and reach their heavenly home safely at last. (John 14:19.)
We see, lastly, in these verses — how needful it is for Christians to keep their faith ready for use. We read that our Lord said to His disciples when the storm had ceased, and their fears had subsided, "Where is your faith?" Well might He ask that question! Where was the profit of believing — if they could not believe in the time of need? Where was the real value of faith — unless they kept it in active exercise? Where was the benefit of trusting — if they were to trust their Master in sunshine only, but not in storms?
The lesson now before us is one of deep practical importance. To have true saving faith is one thing. To have that faith always ready for use, is quite another thing. Many receive Christ as their Savior, and deliberately commit their souls to Him for time and eternity — who yet often find their faith sadly failing when something unexpected happens, and they are suddenly tried.
These things ought not so to be. We ought to pray that we may have a stock of faith ready for use at a moment's notice, and may never be found unprepared. The highest style of Christian is the man who lives like Moses, "Seeing Him who is invisible." (Hebrews 11:27.) That man will never be greatly shaken by any storm in life. He will see Jesus near him in the darkest hour — and blue sky behind the blackest cloud!
Section 47. The Demon Possessed Man, Luke 8:26-36
And they arrived at the country of the Gadarenes, which is over against Galilee. And when he went forth to land, there met him out of the city a certain man, which had devils long time, and ware no clothes, neither abode in any house, but in the tombs. When he saw Jesus, he cried out, and fell down before him, and with a loud voice said, What have I to do with you, Jesus, you Son of God most high? I beseech you, torment me not. (For he had commanded the unclean spirit to come out of the man. For oftentimes it had caught him: and he was kept bound with chains and in fetters; and he brake the bands, and was driven of the devil into the wilderness.) And Jesus asked him, saying, What is your name? And he said, Legion: because many devils were entered into him. And they besought him that he would not command them to go out into the deep. And there was there an herd of many swine feeding on the mountain: and they besought him that he would suffer them to enter into them. And he suffered them. Then went the devils out of the man, and entered into the swine: and the herd ran violently down a steep place into the lake, and were choked. When they that fed them saw what was done, they fled, and went and told it in the city and in the country. Then they went out to see what was done; and came to Jesus, and found the man, out of whom the devils were departed, sitting at the feet of Jesus, clothed, and in his right mind: and they were afraid. They also which saw it told them by what means he who was possessed of the devils was healed.
The well-known narrative which we have now read, is carefully recorded by all of the first three Gospel-writers. It is a striking instance of our Lord's complete dominion over the evil prince of this world. We see the great enemy of our souls for once completely vanquished — the "strong man" foiled by One stronger than he — and the lion spoiled of his prey.
Let us mark, first, in this passage — the miserable condition of those over whom the devil reigns. The picture brought before us is a frightful one. We are told that when our Lord arrived in the country of the Gadarenes, "He was met by a demon-possessed man from the town. For a long time this man had not worn clothes or lived in a house — but had lived in the tombs." We are also told that although he had been "bound with chains and in fetters — he broke the chains, and was driven by the devil into the wilderness."
In short, the case seems to have been one of the most aggravated forms of demon possession. The unhappy sufferer was under the complete dominion of Satan — both in body and soul. As long as he continued in this state — he must have been a burden and a trouble to all around him. His mental faculties were under the control of a "legion" of demons. His bodily strength was only employed for his own injury and shame. It is difficult to conceive of a more pitiable state for mortal man to be in!
Cases of bodily possession by Satan, like this, are, to say the least, very rarely met with in modern times. Yet we must not, on this account, forget that the devil is continually exercising a fearful power over many hearts and souls. He still urges many, in whose hearts he reigns, into self-dishonoring and self-destroying habits of life. He still rules many with a rod of iron. He goads them on from vice to vice, and from profligacy to profligacy. He drives them far from decent society, and the influence of respectable friends. He plunges them into the lowest depths of wickedness. He makes them little better than self-murderers. He renders them as useless to society, as if they were dead, and not alive.
Where is the faithful minister who could not put his finger on many such cases? What truer account can be given of many a young man, and many a young woman — than that they seem possessed by demons? It is vain to shut our eyes to facts.
Demon possession of men's bodies may be comparatively rare. But many, unhappily, are the cases in which the devil appears completely to possess men's souls.
These things are fearful to think upon. It is fearful to see to what a wreck of body and mind Satan often brings young people! It is fearful to observe how he often drives them out of the reach of all good influence, and buries them in a wilderness of bad companions and loathsome sins! It is fearful above all — to reflect that in a little while, Satan's slaves will be lost forever, and in Hell!
There often remains only one thing that can be done for them. They can be named before Christ in prayer. He who came to the country of the Gadarenes, and healed the miserable demoniac there — still lives in Heaven, and pities sinners. The worst slave of Satan in England, is not beyond a remedy. Jesus may yet take compassion on him, and set him free!
Let us mark, secondly, in these verses — the absolute power which the Lord Jesus Christ possesses over Satan. We are told that he "commanded the unclean spirit to come out of the man," whose miserable condition we have just heard described. At once the unhappy sufferer was healed. The "many demons" by whom he had been possessed, were compelled to leave him.
Nor is this all. Cast forth from their abode in the man's heart — we see these malignant spirits beseeching our Lord that He would "not torment" them, or "command them to go out into the abyss" — and so confessing His supremacy over them. Mighty as they were — they plainly felt themselves in the presence of One mightier than themselves. Full of malice as they were — they could not even hurt the "swine" of the Gadarenes until our Lord granted them permission.
Our Lord Jesus Christ's dominion over the devil should be a cheering thought to all true Christians. Without it, indeed, we might well despair of salvation. To feel that we have ever near us an invisible spiritual enemy, laboring night and day to compass our destruction — would be enough to crush our every hope, if we did not know a Friend and Protector.
Blessed be God! The Gospel reveals such a One. The Lord Jesus is stronger than that "strong man armed," who is ever warring against our souls. The Lord Jesus is able to deliver us from the devil. He proved his power over him frequently when upon earth. He triumphed over him gloriously on the cross. He will never let him pluck any of His sheep out of His hand. He will one day bruise him under our feet, and forever bind him in the prison of Hell.
Happy are they who hear Christ's voice and follow Him! Satan may vex them — but he cannot really hurt them! He may bruise their heel — but he cannot destroy their souls. They shall be "more than conquerors" through Him who loved them! (Romans 8:37.)
Let us mark, finally — the wonderful change which Christ can work in Satan's slaves. We are told that the Gadarenes "found the man the demons had departed from — sitting at Jesus' feet, dressed and in his right mind." That sight must indeed have been strange and astonishing! The man's past history and condition, no doubt, were well known. He had probably been a nuisance and a terror to all the neighborhood. Yet here, in one moment — a complete change had come over him. Old things had passed away — and all things had become new! The power by which such a cure was wrought, must indeed have been almighty. When Christ is the physician — then nothing is impossible!
One thing, however, must never be forgotten. As striking and as miraculous as this cure was — it is not really any more astonishing than every case of true conversion to God. As marvelous as the change was which appeared in this demoniac's condition when healed — it is not one whit more marvelous than the change which passes over every one who is born again, and turned from the power of Satan to God!
Never is a man in his right mind — until he is converted. Never is a man in his right place — until he sits by faith at the feet of Jesus Never is a man rightly clothed — until he has put on the Lord Jesus Christ.
Have we ever considered what real conversion to God is? It is nothing else than the miraculous release of a captive — the miraculous restoration of a man to his right mind — the miraculous deliverance of a soul from the devil!
What are we ourselves? This, after all, is the grand question which concerns us. Are we slaves of Satan — or servants of God? Has Christ made us free — or does the devil yet reign in our hearts? Do we sit at the feet of Jesus daily? Are we in our right minds? May the Lord help us to answer these questions aright!
Section 48. Christ rejected by the Gadarenes, Luke 8:37-40
Then the whole multitude of the country of the Gadarenes round about besought him to depart from them; for they were taken with great fear: and he went up into the ship, and returned back again. Now the man out of whom the devils were departed besought him that he might be with him: but Jesus sent him away, saying, Return to your own house, and show how great things God has done unto you. And he went his way, and published throughout the whole city how great things Jesus had done unto him. And it came to pass, that, when Jesus was returned, the people gladly received him: for they were all waiting for him.
We see in this passage, two requests made to our Lord Jesus Christ. They were widely different one from the other, and were offered by people of widely different character. We see, moreover — how these requests were received by our Lord Jesus Christ. In either case, the request received a most remarkable answer. The whole passage is singularly instructive.
Let us observe, in the first place — that the Gadarenes besought our Lord to depart from them, and their request was granted. We read these painfully solemn words — "Then all the people of the region of the Gadarenes begged Jesus to leave them, because they were overcome with fear. So he got into the boat and left."
Why did these unhappy men want the Son of God to leave them? Why, after the amazing miracle of mercy which had just been wrought among them — did they feel no wish to know more of Him who wrought it? Why, in a word — did they become their own enemies, forsake their own mercies, and shut the door against the Gospel?
There is but one answer to these questions. The Gadarenes loved the world, and the things of the world — and were determined not to give them up! They felt convinced, in their own consciences, that they could not receive Christ among them and keep their sins — and they were resolved to keep their sins! They saw, at a glance, that there was something about Jesus with which their habits of life would never agree — and having to choose between the new ways and their own old ones, they refused the new — and chose the old.
And why did our Lord Jesus Christ grant the request of the Gadarenes, and leave them? He did it in judgment — to testify His sense of the greatness of their sin. He did it to show how great is the wickedness of those who willfully reject the truth. It seems to be an eternal law of His government, that those who obstinately refuse to walk in the light — shall have the light taken from them.
Great is Christ's patience and long-suffering! His mercy endures forever. His offers and invitations are wide, and broad, and sweeping, and universal. He gives every church its day of grace and time of visitation. But if men persist in refusing His counsel — He has nowhere promised to persist in forcing it upon them. People who have the Gospel, and yet refuse to obey it — must not be surprised if the Gospel is removed from them.
Hundreds of churches, and parishes, and families, are at this moment in the same state of the Gadarenes. They said to Christ, "Depart from us!" — and He has taken them at their word. They were joined to idols — and are now "let alone." (Job 21:14; Hosea 4:17.)
Let us take heed that we do not sin the sin of the Gadarenes. Let us beware lest by coldness, and inattention, and worldliness — we drive Jesus from our doors, and compel Him to forsake us entirely. Of all sins which we can sin — this is the most sinful. Of all states of soul into which we can fall — none is so fearful as to be "let alone."
Let it rather be our daily prayer, that Christ may never leave us to ourselves. The old wreck, high and dry on the sand-bank, is not a more wretched sight than the man whose heart Christ has visited with mercies and judgments — but has at last ceased to visit, because He was not received. The barred door is a door at which Jesus will not always knock. The Gadarene mind must not be surprised to see Christ leaving it and going away.
Let us observe, in the second place — that the man out of whom the devils were departed, besought our Lord that he might be with Him, but his request was not granted. We read that Jesus sent him away, saying, "Return to your own home — and tell them the great things which God has done unto you."
We can easily understand the request which this man made. He felt deeply grateful for the amazing mercy which he had just received in being cured. He felt full of love and warm affection toward Him, who had so wonderfully and graciously cured him. He felt that he could not see too much of Him, be too much in His company, or cleave too closely to Him. He forgot everything else — under the influence of these feelings. Family, relations, friends, home, house, country — all seemed as nothing in his eyes. He felt that he cared for nothing but to be with Christ.
We cannot blame him for his feelings. They may have been tinged with something of enthusiasm and inconsideration. There may have been a zeal not according to knowledge about them. In the first excitement of a newly felt cure — he may not have been fit to judge what his future line of life should be. But excited feelings in religion — are far better than no feelings at all. In the petition he made — there was far more to praise, than to blame.
But why did our Lord Jesus Christ refuse to grant this man's request? Why, at a time when he had few disciples, did He send this man away? Why, instead of allowing him to join with Himself and His disciples — did He bid him to return to his own house?
Our Lord did what He did, in infinite wisdom. He did it for the benefit of the man's own soul. He saw that it was more for his good to be a witness for the Gospel at home — than to be a disciple abroad. He did it in mercy to the Gadarenes. He left among them, one standing testimony of the truth of His own divine mission.
He did it, above all, for the perpetual instruction of His whole church. He would have us to know that there are various ways of glorifying Him — that He may be honored in private life as well as in the apostolic office — and that the first place in which we should witness for Christ, is our own home!
There is a lesson of deep experimental wisdom in this little incident, which all true Christians would do well to lay to heart. That lesson is our own utter ignorance of what position is good for us in this world — and the necessity of submitting our own wills to the will of Christ. The place that we wish to fill — is not always the place that is best for us. The line of life that we want to take up — is not always that which Christ sees to be most for the benefit of our souls.
The place that we are obliged to fill, is sometimes very distasteful — and yet it may be needful to our sanctification. The position we are compelled to occupy, may be very disagreeable to flesh and blood — and yet it may be the very one that is necessary to keep us in our right mind. It is better to be sent away from Christ's bodily presence, by Christ Himself — than to remain in Christ's bodily presence without His consent.
Let us pray for the spirit of "contentment with such things as we have." Let us be fearful of choosing for ourselves in this life, without Christ's consent — or moving in this world, when the pillar of cloud and fire is not moving before us. Let us ask the Lord to choose everything for us. Let our daily prayer be, "Give me what you will. Place me where you will. Only let me be Your disciple and abide in You."
Section 49. A Sick Woman Healed, Luke 8:41-48
And, behold, there came a man named Jairus, and he was a ruler of the synagogue: and he fell down at Jesus' feet, and besought him that he would come into his house: For he had one only daughter, about twelve years of age, and she lay a dying. But as he went the people thronged him. And a woman having an issue of blood twelve years, which had spent all her living upon physicians, neither could be healed of any, Came behind him, and touched the border of his garment: and immediately her issue of blood stanched. And Jesus said, Who touched me? When all denied, Peter and they that were with him said, Master, the multitude throng you and press you, and say you, Who touched me? And Jesus said, Somebody has touched me: for I perceive that virtue is gone out of me. And when the woman saw that she was not hid, she came trembling, and falling down before him, she declared unto him before all the people for what cause she had touched him, and how she was healed immediately. And he said unto her, Daughter, be of good comfort: your faith has made you whole; go in peace.
How much misery and trouble — sin has brought into the world! The passage we have just read affords a melancholy proof of this.
First we see a distressed father in bitter anxiety about a dying daughter. Then we see a suffering woman, who has been afflicted twelve years with an incurable disease. And these are things which sin has sown broadcast over the whole earth! These are but examples of what is going on continually on every side. These are evils which God did not create at the beginning — but man has brought upon himself by the fall. There would have been no sorrow and no sickness among Adam's children — if there had been no sin!
Let us see in the case of the woman here described — a striking picture of the condition of many souls. We are told that she had been afflicted with a wearing disease for "twelve years," and that she "had spent all she had upon physicians," and that she could not be healed by any of them.
The state of many a sinner's heart is placed before us in this description as in a mirror. Perhaps it describes ourselves. There are men and women in most congregations who have felt their sins deeply — and been sorely afflicted by the thought that they are not forgiven and not fit to die. They have desired relief and peace of conscience — but have not known where to find them. They have tried many false remedies, and found themselves "nothing better — but rather worse!"
They have gone the round of all the forms of religion, and wearied themselves with every imaginable man-made device for obtaining spiritual health. But all has been in vain. Peace of conscience seems as far off as ever. The wound within is a fretting, intractable sore, which nothing can heal. They are still wretched, still unhappy, still thoroughly discontented with their own state. In short, like the woman of whom we read today, they are ready to say, "There is no hope for me. I shall never be saved."
Let all such take comfort in the miracle which we are now considering. Let them know that "there is a balm in Gilead" — which can cure them, if they will only seek it. There is one door at which they have never knocked, in all their efforts to obtain relief. There is one Physician to whom they have not applied, who never fails to heal. Let them consider the conduct of the woman before us in her necessity. When all other means had failed — she went to Jesus for help. Let them go and do likewise.
Let us see, secondly, in the conduct of the woman before us — a striking picture of the first beginnings of saving faith and its effect. We are told that she "came behind" our Lord, and "touched the hem of His garment, and immediately her bleeding stopped." The act appeared a most simple one — and utterly inadequate to produce any great result. But the effect of that act was most marvelous! In an instant, the poor sufferer was healed. The relief that many physicians had failed to give in "twelve years" — was obtained in one moment. It was but one touch — and she was made well!
It is hard to conceive a more lively image of the experience of many souls, than the history of this woman's cure. Hundreds could testify that, like her — they long sought spiritual help from physicians of no value, and wearied their souls by using remedies which brought no cure. At last, like her, they heard of One who healed laboring consciences, and forgave sinners, "without money and without price" — if men would only come to Him by faith. The terms sounded too good to be credible. The tidings sounded too good to be true.
But, like the woman before us, they resolved to try. They came to Christ by faith, with all their sins — and to their amazement, at once found relief! And now they feel more comfort and hope than they ever felt before. The burden was rolled off their backs. The weight was taken off their minds. Light was breaking in on their hearts. They begin to "rejoice in hope of the glory of God." (Romans 5:2.) And all, they would tell us — is owing to one simple thing. They came to Jesus just as they were — with all their sing. They touched Him by faith — and were healed.
Forever let it be engraved on our hearts, that faith in Christ is the grand secret of peace with God. Without it we shall never find inward rest — whatever else we may do in religion. Without it we may go to religious services daily, and receive the Lord's Supper every week; we may give our goods to the poor, and our bodies to be burned; we may fast and wear sackcloth, and live the lives of hermits. All this we may do — and be miserable after all.
One true believing touch of Christ, is of more worth than all these things put together. The pride of human nature may not like it! But it is true! Thousands will rise up at the last day and testify that they never felt comfort of soul — until they came to Christ by faith, and were content to cease from their own works, and be saved wholly and entirely by His grace!
Let us see, lastly, in this passage — how much our Lord desires that those who have received benefit from Him, should confess Him before men. We are told that He did not allow this woman, whose case we have been reading, to retire from the crowd unnoticed. He inquired "who had touched Him." He inquired again, until the woman came forward and "declared" her case before all the people. And then came the gracious words, "Daughter, be of good comfort. Your faith has made you whole!"
Confession of Christ is a matter of great importance. Let this never be forgotten by true Christians. The work that we can do for our blessed Master, is little and poor. Our best endeavors to glorify Him, are weak and full of imperfections. Our prayers and praises, are sadly defective. Our knowledge and love, are miserably small.
But do we feel within that Christ has healed our souls? Then can we not confess Christ before men? Can we not plainly tell others that Christ has done everything for us? Can we not tell others that we were dying of a deadly disease — and were cured? Can we not tell others that we were lost — and are now found; that we were blind — and now see? Let us do this boldly, and not be afraid. Let us not be ashamed to let all men know what Jesus has done for our souls!
Our Master loves to see us doing so. He likes His people not to be ashamed of His name. It is a solemn saying of Paul, "If you shall confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus, and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead — you shall be saved." (Romans 10:9.) It is a still more solemn saying of Christ Himself, "Whoever shall be ashamed of me and my words — of him shall the Son of man be ashamed." (Luke 9:26.)
Section 50. Jairus' Daughter Raised from the Dead, Luke 8:49-56
While he yet spoke, there comes one from the ruler of the synagogue's house, saying to him, Your daughter is dead; trouble not the Master. But when Jesus heard it, he answered him, saying, Fear not: believe only, and she shall be made whole. And when he came into the house, he suffered no man to go in, save Peter, and James, and John, and the father and the mother of the maiden. And all wept, and bewailed her: but he said, Weep not; she is not dead, but sleeps. And they laughed him to scorn, knowing that she was dead. And he put them all out, and took her by the hand, and called, saying, Maid, arise. And her spirit came again, and she arose immediately: and he commanded to give her meat. And her parents were astonished: but he charged them that they should tell no man what was done.
The verses we have now read, contain one of the three great instances which the Holy Spirit has thought fit to record of our Lord restoring a dead person to life. The other two instances are those of Lazarus and the widow's son at Nain. There seems no reason to doubt that our Lord raised others beside these three. But these three cases are especially described as patterns of His almighty power. One was a young girl — who had just breathed her last. One was a young man — who was being carried to his burial. One was a man — who had already laid four days in the grave. In all three cases alike, we see life at once restored at Christ's command.
Let us notice, in the verses before us — how universal is the dominion which death holds over mankind. We see death coming to a rich man's house, and tearing from him the desire of his eyes with a stroke!
Such tidings as these, are the bitterest cups which we have to drink in this world. Nothing cuts so deeply into man's heart — as to part with beloved ones, and lay them in the grave. Few griefs are so crushing and heavy — as the grief of a parent over the death of an only child.
Death is indeed a cruel enemy! He makes no distinction in his attacks. He comes to the rich man's mansion — as well as to the poor man's cottage. He does not spare the young, the strong, and the beautiful — any more than the old, the infirm, and the grey-haired. Not all the gold of Australia, nor all the skill of doctors — can keep the hand of death from our bodies, in the day of his power. When the appointed hour comes, and God permits him to smite — then our worldly schemes must be broken off, and our darlings must be taken away and buried out of our sight.
These thoughts are melancholy, and few like to hear of them. The subject of death is one that men shut their eyes at, and refuse to look at. "All men think all men mortal, but themselves!" But why should we treat this great reality in this way? Why should we not rather look the subject of death in the face, in order that when our turn comes — we may be prepared to die?
Death will come to our houses, whether we like it or not. Death will take each of us away — despite our dislike to hearing about it. Surely it is the part of a wise man to get ready for this great change.
Why should we not be ready? There is one who can deliver us from the fear of death. Christ has overcome death, and "brought life and immortality to light through the Gospel." He who believes on Him, has everlasting life. Though he dies — yet shall he live.
Let us believe in the Lord Jesus — and then death will lose his sting. We shall then be able to say with Paul, "To me, to die is gain!" Philippians 1:21Let us notice, secondly, in the verses before us — that faith in Christ's love and power, is the best remedy in time of trouble. We are told that when Jesus heard the news that the ruler's daughter was dead, He said to him, "Do not be afraid; only believe — and she will be healed." These words, no doubt, were spoken with immediate reference to the miracle our Lord was going to perform. But we need not doubt that they were also meant for the perpetual benefit of the Church of Christ. They were meant to reveal to us, the grand secret of comfort in the hour of need. That secret is to exercise faith — to fall back on the thought of Christ's loving heart and mighty hand — in one word, to believe.
Let a petition for more faith form a part of all our daily prayers. As ever we would have peace, and calmness, and quietness of heart — let us often say, "Lord, increase our faith!" A hundred painful things may happen to us every week in this evil world, of which our poor weak minds cannot see the reason. Without faith, we shall be constantly disturbed and cast down. Nothing will make us cheerful and tranquil — but an abiding sense of Christ's love, Christ's wisdom, Christ's care over us, and Christ's providential management of all our affairs. Faith will not sink under the weight of evil tidings. "He will have no fear of bad news. His heart is steadfast, trusting in the Lord." (Psalm 112:7.)
Faith can sit still and wait for better times. Faith can see light even in the darkest hour — and a needs-be for the heaviest trial. Faith can find room to build an Ebenezer (stone of help) under any circumstances, and can sing songs in the night in any condition. "He who believes shall not make haste." "You will keep him in perfect peace — whose mind is stayed on you." Once more let the lesson be engraved on our minds: If we would travel comfortably through this world — we must "believe."
Let us notice, finally, in these verses — the almighty power which our Lord Jesus Christ possesses even over death. We are told that He came to the house of Jairus and turned the mourning into joy. He took the breathless body of the ruler's daughter by the hand, and said, "My child, arise!" At once by that all-powerful voice, life was restored. "Her life returned, and she arose immediately."
Let us take comfort in the thought, that there is a limit to death's power. The king of terrors is very strong. How many generations he has mowed down and swept into the dust! How many of the wise and strong, and lovely — he has swallowed down and snatched away in their prime! How many victories he has won, and how often he has written "Vanity of vanities!" on the pride of man! Patriarchs, and kings, and prophets, and apostles — have all in turn been obliged to yield to him. They have all died.
But thanks be unto God, there is one stronger than death. There is one who has said, "O death! I will be your plague! O grave! I will be your destruction!" (Hosea 13:14.) That One is the Friend of sinners, Christ Jesus the Lord. He proved His power frequently when He came to the earth the first time — in the house of Jairus, by the tomb of Bethany, in the gate of Nain. He will prove His power to all the world, when He comes again. "The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death!" (1 Corinthians 15:26.) "The earth shall cast out the dead!" (Isaiah 26:19.)
Let us leave the passage with the consoling thought that the things which happened in Jairus' house — are a type of good things to come. The hour is coming and will soon be here — when the voice of Christ shall call all His people from their graves, and gather them together to part no more. Believing husbands shall once more see believing wives. Believing parents shall once more see believing children. Christ shall unite His whole redeemed family in the great home in Heaven, and all tears shall be wiped from all eyes!