New Testament
Mark 5:16
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The eyewitnesses described everything that had happened to the demon-possessed man and told them about the pigs.
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And they that saw it told them how it befell to him that was possessed with the devil, and also concerning the swine.
What Mark 5:16 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the people who witnessed the miraculous healing of the demon-possessed man share their experiences with others. They recount not only the transformation of the man, who was freed from his torment, but also the unusual event involving the pigs that had drowned after the demons were cast out. This highlights the dramatic change in the man's life and the impact of Jesus' power over evil. The eyewitnesses play a crucial role in spreading the news about what Jesus had done, emphasizing the importance of sharing personal testimonies of faith and healing. Their account serves as a reminder of the reality of spiritual battles and the authority of Jesus to bring liberation and restoration. The mention of the pigs also raises questions about the cost of the miracle, illustrating the complex nature of divine intervention in human affairs.
How to apply Mark 5:16 to your life
This verse encourages us to share our personal experiences of faith and healing with others. By telling our stories, we can inspire hope and demonstrate the power of Jesus in our lives. It reminds us that our testimonies can impact those around us and lead them to seek spiritual freedom.
Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Freeing a Man from Demons (Mark 5:1–20)
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Jesus
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
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Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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Keep studying Mark 5:16
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At a Glance — the Book of Mark
- Author
- John Mark
- Written
- Around AD 55-65
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Roman and Gentile Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Mark 5:16 mean?
Mark 5:16 describes how eyewitnesses shared their accounts of the healing of a demon-possessed man and the incident with the pigs. This verse highlights the importance of personal testimonies in spreading the news of Jesus' miraculous works.
What is the significance of the pigs in Mark 5:16?
The pigs in Mark 5:16 symbolize the cost of the miracle, as they drowned after the demons were cast out. This raises questions about the implications of divine intervention and the impact it can have on both people and their surroundings.
How does Mark 5:16 relate to personal testimonies?
Mark 5:16 illustrates the role of eyewitnesses in sharing their experiences of healing and transformation. Their testimonies serve as powerful reminders of the impact of faith and the importance of sharing one's story with others.
What themes are present in Mark 5:16?
Key themes in Mark 5:16 include witnessing, transformation, spiritual warfare, testimony, and divine authority. These themes highlight the significance of personal experiences in understanding Jesus' power and the reality of spiritual battles.
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