Casting demons into herd of pigs

Dear Mike,
Why did Jesus send the demons into a herd of pigs?

In Mark 5:7-13, the story of Jesus casting out demons from a man possessed by "Legion" (indicating many demons) includes an unusual detail where the demons request to enter a herd of pigs instead of being sent away. Here's a brief analysis of both why the demons asked for this and why Jesus permitted it:

1. Why did the demons ask to go into the pigs?

- Fear of destruction or torment: The demons pleaded with Jesus not to "send them out of the country" or into the "abyss" (as mentioned in Luke 8:31, a parallel account). Demons often fear final judgment, which is associated with being cast into a place of torment. By asking to enter the pigs, they may have been seeking to avoid this fate for a time, hoping to remain in the physical realm.

- Desire for embodiment: Demons appear to prefer residing in physical beings, whether humans or animals. Being disembodied may render them powerless or banish them to the spiritual realm. The pigs offered them a temporary physical host.

- Disruption of the community: It's possible that the demons wanted to cause further harm and chaos. By entering the pigs, they ultimately led the entire herd to rush into the sea and drown, causing economic and emotional distress to the local people.

2. Why did Jesus permit this?

- Demonstration of authority: By allowing the demons to enter the pigs, Jesus demonstrated His authority over them. They could only act with His permission, emphasizing His supremacy over evil spiritual forces.

- Revealing the true destructiveness of demons: The immediate destruction of the pigs after the demons entered them illustrates the destructive nature of these spiritual beings. It reveals to the witnesses how much harm the demons were capable of, and what they had been doing to the possessed man. This provides a stark contrast between the peace Jesus brings and the devastation caused by evil.

- A sign to the Gentiles: The presence of pigs suggests that this took place in a Gentile region, as Jews considered pigs unclean. The event may have served as a sign to the non-Jewish community, showcasing Jesus' power and mercy even toward those outside of Israel. It also may have prompted the Gentiles to reflect on the presence of evil and their need for deliverance.

The demons' request to enter the pigs and Jesus' permission likely reflect both spiritual realities about the nature of demons (their fear of judgment and their preference for embodiment) and Jesus' intention to visibly demonstrate His authority over evil. The event highlights the destructive intent of demonic forces and the peace and restoration Jesus brings in contrast.

Sources:

1. The New International Commentary on the New Testament: The Gospel of Mark by William L. Lane.

- This commentary provides detailed exegesis of the passage, including insights into the cultural and theological significance of the demons' request to enter the pigs.

2. The Gospel According to Mark (Pillar New Testament Commentary) by James R. Edwards.

- Edwards explores the historical and spiritual context of the event, explaining why Jesus permitted the demons to enter the pigs, emphasizing the display of Christ's authority over evil spirits.

3. The Expositor's Bible Commentary (Volume 8): Matthew, Mark, Luke edited by Frank E. Gaebelein.

- This volume offers a comprehensive breakdown of the narrative, particularly focusing on the theological implications of Jesus allowing the demons to go into the pigs.

4. The Gospel of Mark (New International Greek Testament Commentary) by R. T. France.

- France's commentary discusses the narrative in light of Mark's overall presentation of Jesus as Lord over both the physical and spiritual realms, offering detailed exegesis on why Jesus allowed the demons to enter the pigs.