Mark 5:10

And he besought him much that he would not send them away out of the country.

And {G2532} he besought {G3870} him {G846} much {G4183} that {G3363} he would {G649} not {G3363} send {G649} them {G846} away {G649} out of {G1854} the country {G5561}.

and he kept begging Yeshua not to send them out of that region.

And he begged Jesus repeatedly not to send them out of that region.

And he besought him much that he would not send them away out of the country.

Commentary

Mark 5:10 is a pivotal verse in the dramatic account of Jesus' encounter with the demon-possessed man in the region of the Gerasenes (or Gadarenes in some parallel accounts). Here, the legion of demons, speaking through the man, desperately pleads with Jesus not to cast them out of that specific geographical area.

Context

This verse immediately follows the demons' terrifying self-identification as "Legion, for we are many" (Mark 5:9) and their recognition of Jesus as the "Son of the Most High God" (Mark 5:7). The man had been living in tombs, uncontrollable by human means, and prone to self-harm (Mark 5:3-5). The demons' plea in this verse sets the stage for their subsequent request to be sent into a herd of pigs, which Jesus permits (Mark 5:13). This event highlights Jesus' supreme authority over all spiritual forces, even in Gentile territory, as depicted in the parallel accounts in Matthew 8:28-34 and Luke 8:26-39.

Key Themes

  • Jesus' Unquestionable Authority: The demons, despite their multitude and destructive power, are utterly subject to Jesus. They "besought him much," indicating their fear and complete submission to His command. This underscores the sovereignty of Christ over all spiritual forces.
  • Demonic Fear and Desperation: The evil spirits are terrified of being "sent away out of the country." This suggests a fear of being dislodged from their current sphere of influence or sent to a more confined place of torment, possibly referring to the "abyss" mentioned in Luke's parallel account (Luke 8:31), a concept related to the ultimate fate of evil spirits (Revelation 20:3).
  • Territoriality of Evil: Their desire to remain "in the country" or region suggests that evil spirits may operate within specific geographical areas or prefer certain environments. This offers a glimpse into the organized nature of spiritual wickedness.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "besought him much" translates the Greek parekalei auton polla, which conveys a sense of intense, urgent pleading or imploring. It emphasizes the profound desperation and earnestness of the demons' request, highlighting their complete subjugation to Jesus' will. The phrase "out of the country" (Greek: exō tΔ“s chōras) literally means "outside of the region or land," reinforcing their desire to maintain their presence in that particular area.

Practical Application

This verse offers powerful reassurance to believers today:

  • No Fear of Demonic Power: If even a "legion" of demons trembles and pleads before Jesus, believers who are in Christ have nothing to fear from spiritual attacks. Jesus has decisively triumphed over all powers of darkness.
  • Spiritual Authority in Christ: We are reminded that Jesus has all authority in heaven and on earth. While we may face spiritual opposition, our ultimate victory is secured in Him.
  • The Reality of Spiritual Warfare: The passage acknowledges the existence and influence of evil spirits, but it always points to Jesus as the supreme victor. Believers are called to stand firm in the Lord and in the strength of His might.

Reflection

Mark 5:10 serves as a stark reminder of Jesus' unparalleled authority over the unseen spiritual realm. Even the most formidable demonic forces recognize His power and are compelled to submit to His will. This scene powerfully demonstrates that no power, no matter how great or terrifying, can stand against the Son of God, offering profound comfort and confidence to all who trust in Him.

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Cross-References

  • Mark 3:22

    ΒΆ And the scribes which came down from Jerusalem said, He hath Beelzebub, and by the prince of the devils casteth he out devils.

  • Mark 5:13

    And forthwith Jesus gave them leave. And the unclean spirits went out, and entered into the swine: and the herd ran violently down a steep place into the sea, (they were about two thousand;) and were choked in the sea.
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