New Testament
Luke 8:31
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The demons kept begging Jesus not to send them into the deep.
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And they besought him that he would not command them to go out into the deep.
What Luke 8:31 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a powerful encounter between Jesus and demons. The demons, recognizing Jesus' authority, plead with Him not to send them into the 'deep,' which refers to the abyss or a place of confinement. This shows their fear of being cast out and losing their power. The deep symbolizes a place of punishment and separation from the world. The demons' begging highlights their desperation and the authority that Jesus holds over them. This moment illustrates the spiritual battle between good and evil, where Jesus demonstrates His power to command even the forces of darkness. It also reveals the nature of demons, who are aware of their fate and seek to avoid it at all costs. This interaction sets the stage for the miraculous deliverance that follows, emphasizing Jesus' role as a savior and liberator.
How to apply Luke 8:31 to your life
This verse reminds us of the power of Jesus over all spiritual forces. In our lives, we may face struggles that feel overwhelming, but we can trust that Jesus has authority over every situation. We should seek His help in times of trouble, knowing He can deliver us from darkness.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Freeing a Man from Demons (Luke 8:26–39)
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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
The demons — called Legion because there were many of them — begged Jesus not to send them into the deep. They were afraid of where he might banish them. Instead, they asked to enter a nearby herd of pigs, which Jesus allowed. The deep is the place they feared most, and they were willing to go anywhere else to avoid it.
Read It in Context
A man possessed by many demons had just identified himself as Legion. Jesus had already commanded the unclean spirit to leave the man. The demons, knowing they had no power to resist Jesus, were not asking whether they would be cast out — only where they would be sent.
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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 8:31 mean?
Luke 8:31 depicts a moment where demons plead with Jesus not to send them into the abyss, showing their fear of losing power and facing punishment. This highlights Jesus' authority over evil spirits and the spiritual battle between good and evil.
What is the meaning of 'the deep' in Luke 8:31?
In Luke 8:31, 'the deep' refers to the abyss, a place of confinement and punishment for demons. It symbolizes their fear of being cast out from the world and losing their influence.
Why do the demons beg Jesus in Luke 8:31?
The demons beg Jesus not to send them into the deep because they fear the abyss represents their ultimate punishment and loss of power. Their pleading indicates their awareness of Jesus' authority and their desperate situation.
What does Luke 8:31 teach us about spiritual authority?
Luke 8:31 teaches that Jesus has ultimate authority over spiritual forces, including demons. This verse reassures believers that they can trust in Jesus' power to overcome struggles and darkness in their lives.
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