This chapter contains many miracles by Jesus, including the calming of a storm, several instances of physical healing, and casting out demons.
“…they brought to [Jesus] many who were oppressed by demons, and he cast out the spirits with a word and healed all who were sick… And when he came to… the country of the Gadarenes, two demon-possessed men met him… And behold, they cried out, ‘What have you to do with us, O Son of God? Have you come here to torment us before the time?’ And he said to them, ‘Go.’ So they came out and went into the pigs, and behold, the whole herd rushed down the steep bank into the sea and drowned…” (v16,28-29,32)
Jesus performed many miracles of physical healing in His ministry, however, His main focus was spiritual healing, restoration, and reconciliation between sinners and God. One way He exercised His spiritual authority was casting out demons with a single word – “Go”. Later on, the apostles also cast out demons, though they needed to invoke Jesus’ (God’s) authority to do so: ‘In the name of Jesus Christ, go!’
I find it interesting that the demons recognized and acknowledged Jesus as “Son of God” before mankind realized that truth. What does this mean? It means Jesus has God’s authority over all of heaven and earth, and even the demons acknowledge it.
Ignoring false prophets who ‘cast out demons’ or perform ‘miraculous physical healing’ for fame or entertainment (which is almost always fake), do we see real life instances of these powerful practices today? Not very often (if ever). Why not? Possibly because those who truly invoke the power of Jesus keep it relatively secret, and/or, very few people properly invoke the authority and name of Jesus.
I suggest we continue pursuing a close personal relationship with Jesus. The more we obey Him, and the more we model His love for others, the more effectively we can invoke His name and power for the Father’s glory. We won’t all receive the spiritual gifts of casting out demons or physical healing, but if we allow God to work through us in the gifts and abilities we do have, we will make a significant positive spiritual impact in this world. All God requires is our trust, obedience, perseverance, and faith the size of a mustard seed.
Father God, our Glorious and Most High Lord, we magnify and praise Your holy name. Jesus, Son of God, our Ruler and King, You have modeled flawless obedience to the Father. May we learn greatly from Your example, and call upon Your name in all circumstances, so we may be delivered from sin and temptation, and glorify our Father in heaven. Spirit please work in and through us positively impact and heal our world for the Father’s Kingdom. Father we seek You day by day, hour by hour, in the name on Jesus Christ our savior. Amen.
~ Conqueror in Training