Luke 8:36

They also which saw [it] told them by what means he that was possessed of the devils was healed.

^{G1161} They also ^{G2532} which saw ^{G1492} it told ^{G518} them ^{G846} by what means ^{G4459} he that was possessed of the devils ^{G1139} was healed ^{G4982}.

Those who had seen it told how the formerly demonized man had been delivered.

Meanwhile, those who had seen it reported how the demon-possessed man had been healed.

And they that saw it told them how he that was possessed with demons was made whole.

Commentary

Context of Luke 8:36

This verse is a crucial part of the dramatic account of Jesus healing the Gerasene demoniac, found in Luke 8:26-39. Following Jesus' powerful command, a "legion" of demons were cast out of a tormented man and allowed to enter a herd of pigs, which subsequently rushed down a steep bank into the lake and drowned. The swineherds, witnessing this astonishing event, fled to the city and surrounding countryside to report what had transpired. Verse 36 specifically highlights the testimony of those who had seen the miracle unfold, emphasizing their role in spreading the news of the man's deliverance and the extraordinary means by which it occurred.

Key Themes and Messages

Eyewitness Credibility: The phrase "They also which saw it told them" underscores the importance of firsthand testimony. The transformation of the demoniac was so profound and public that it was undeniable to those who observed it. This eyewitness account served to authenticate the miracle and Jesus' power.
Jesus' Supreme Authority Over Evil: The core message conveyed by the witnesses was "by what means he that was possessed of the devils was healed." This powerfully demonstrates Jesus' absolute dominion over demonic forces and spiritual oppression. Unlike human attempts at healing or exorcism, Jesus' command was instantaneous and complete, showcasing His divine authority. This aligns with other instances where Jesus showed His power over unclean spirits.
Comprehensive Healing: The healing was not just an expulsion of demons but a complete restoration of the man's mind, body, and spirit. From a wild, naked, and dangerous individual, he became sane, clothed, and calm, sitting at Jesus' feet (Luke 8:35).

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated "possessed of the devils" is daimonizomenos (δαιμονιζόμενος), which literally means "being demonized" or "under the influence of demons." This term emphasizes the profound and pervasive control the evil spirits had over the man. The word "healed" is iathe (ἰάθη), signifying a complete cure or restoration to health, rather than just a temporary relief. The phrase "by what means" (ὅν τρόπον - hon tropon) points directly to the method of healing, which was Jesus' direct intervention and power.

Significance and Application

Luke 8:36 reminds us of several enduring truths:

The Power of Testimony: Just as these eyewitnesses spread the news of Jesus' power, believers today are called to share their own testimonies and the truth of what God has done. Our personal experiences, combined with the biblical narrative, can be powerful tools for evangelism.
Hope for the Hopeless: This account offers profound hope for anyone struggling with spiritual oppression, mental health issues, or seemingly insurmountable problems. Jesus' ability to completely transform the Gerasene demoniac illustrates that no one is beyond His reach or too far gone for His redemptive power.
Jesus' Victory Over Evil: The reality of spiritual warfare is undeniable, but this passage firmly establishes that Jesus has ultimate authority over all forces of darkness. Believers are called to stand firm in this truth, knowing that our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual wickedness, and that Christ has already triumphed.

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Cross-References

Matthew 4:24

And his fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought unto him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatick, and those that had the palsy; and he healed them.