In Luke 8, we read how Jesus healed a demon possessed man. He often showed His power over demons, and even gave His followers power over demons. These stories teach important lessons about our God.
The man possessed by this demon(s) grew increasingly stronger and more menacing. By the time Jesus met him, he ran around naked and lived in the tombs. At one time, the people could restrain him, but by now, he had grown strong enough to break even the strongest chains and he roamed free.
“Jesus then asked him, “What is your name?” And he said, “Legion,” for many demons had entered him.” (Luke 8:30 ESV).
And if Hollywood had its way, an epic battle between good and evil would ensue.
But in truth, confrontations between the Son of God and the demons were fairly anticlimactic. There was never a battle, but simply the Creator commanding and the demons obeying. In fact, as strong as this demon was, he (they) knew the gig was up as soon as Jesus stepped onto the scene. They didn't struggle, they simply begged and obeyed the Almighty. Consider…
“When he saw Jesus, he cried out and fell down before him and said with a loud voice, “What have you to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I beg you, do not torment me.” (Luke 8:28 ESV).
“And they begged him not to command them to depart into the abyss. Now a large herd of pigs was feeding there on the hillside, and they begged him to let them enter these. So he gave them permission.” (Luke 8:31-32 ESV).
No power struggle. No epic battle. Jesus shows that He truly is master of all. And when the dust settled, a man created by Jesus, in His own image, sat at His feet, clothed and in his right mind (Luke 8:35). For the first time since being inhabited by Legion, the man was in control of his life. And what was the one thing he chose to do?
“The man from whom the demons had gone begged that he might be with him,” (Luke 8:38a ESV).
Legion had forced this man's obedience but having met the One whom even Legion feared, the man chose to follow the Son of God.
“but Jesus sent him away, saying, “Return to your home, and declare how much God has done for you.” And he went away, proclaiming throughout the whole city how much Jesus had done for him.” (Luke 8:38b-39 ESV).
The man obeyed Jesus' instructions. And the man formerly named Legion preached to all who would hear. Later we read about Jesus feeding 5000 men plus women and children, a massive crowd who grew and refused to stop following Him around. This crowd was from the same region that this new preacher told the story about the Man who commanded even the demons.
I wonder how many of the people who ate the loaves and fishes were there because they had heard the message from this new preacher formerly named Legion. Remember, no matter how broken, poor or sinful our past may be, never underestimate how God can use even someone like us.