New Testament
Luke 8:27
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When Jesus stepped ashore, a man from the town met him who had been possessed by demons for a long time. He wore no clothes and didn't live in a house — he lived among the tombs.
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And when he went forth to land, there met him out of the city a certain man, which had devils long time, and ware no clothes, neither abode in any house, but in the tombs.
What Luke 8:27 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus arrives at a place and is immediately confronted by a man who has been suffering from demonic possession for a long time. This man is in a desperate state; he is unclothed and has chosen to live among the tombs, indicating his isolation and the severity of his condition. The tombs symbolize death and despair, highlighting how far removed he is from normal society and the life he once had. His lack of clothing suggests not only his physical state but also his loss of dignity and humanity due to the demons that control him. This encounter sets the stage for a significant miracle, showcasing Jesus' authority over evil and his compassion for those who are suffering. The man’s condition reflects the broader human struggle with sin and spiritual oppression, emphasizing the need for healing and restoration that only Jesus can provide.
How to apply Luke 8:27 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of compassion for those who are suffering and marginalized. It encourages us to reach out to those in need, recognizing that everyone deserves love and support, regardless of their circumstances. We can be instruments of healing in our communities.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Freeing a Man from Demons (Luke 8:26–39)
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Jesus
Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
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Plain Meaning
Jesus steps off the boat and is immediately met by a man from the nearby city. This man has been controlled by devils for a long time. He wears no clothes, does not live in a house, and instead lives among the tombs — a burial ground outside the city. The verse sets up who this man is and how severe his condition is before Jesus deals with it.
Read It in Context
Jesus and his disciples have just crossed the lake to the country of the Gadarenes. This verse opens the encounter that follows: Jesus will cast the devils out of the man and into a herd of pigs.
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At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 8:27 mean?
Luke 8:27 describes Jesus' encounter with a man possessed by demons, highlighting his desperate condition and isolation. The verse illustrates the severity of the man's suffering and sets the stage for Jesus' miraculous healing, demonstrating his authority over evil.
What is the significance of the tombs in Luke 8:27?
The tombs in Luke 8:27 symbolize death and despair, reflecting the man's separation from society and his lost humanity due to demonic possession. They emphasize the depth of his suffering and the need for restoration.
What themes are present in Luke 8:27?
Key themes in Luke 8:27 include demon possession, isolation, despair, and the authority of Jesus. The verse also touches on compassion and the need for healing and restoration for those who suffer.
How does Luke 8:27 relate to compassion for others?
Luke 8:27 encourages compassion for those who are marginalized or suffering, reminding us to reach out and support individuals in desperate situations, just as Jesus did for the possessed man.
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