New Testament

Matthew 8:32

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this passage, Jesus encounters two men possessed by demons.

Author
Matthew the apostle
Written
Around AD 60-70
Genre
Gospel
Original Audience
Jewish Christians
CBTClear Bible Translation

"Go," Jesus said. So the demons came out of the men and went into the pigs. Suddenly, the whole herd ran violently down the steep bank into the lake and perished in the waters.

KJVKing James Version

And he said unto them, Go. And when they were come out, they went into the herd of swine: and, behold, the whole herd of swine ran violently down a steep place into the sea, and perished in the waters.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this passage, Jesus encounters two men possessed by demons. When He commands the demons to leave, they request to enter a herd of pigs nearby. Jesus permits this, and the demons enter the pigs, causing the entire herd to rush down a steep bank and drown in the lake. This event illustrates Jesus' authority over evil spirits and the destructive nature of demonic influence. The pigs' violent reaction signifies the chaos that demons bring into lives. The loss of the pigs also raises questions about the value of human life versus livestock, highlighting the impact of spiritual battles on the physical world. This story serves as a powerful reminder of Jesus' power to deliver individuals from bondage and the consequences of evil. It also emphasizes the importance of recognizing and confronting spiritual forces in our lives.

How to apply Matthew 8:32 to your life

This passage encourages us to seek Jesus' help in overcoming personal struggles and spiritual battles. It reminds us that Jesus has the power to free us from negative influences and that we should be aware of the impact of evil in our lives.

Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Matthew 8:32 mean?

Matthew 8:32 describes an event where Jesus commands demons to leave two possessed men, and they enter a herd of pigs instead. This illustrates Jesus' authority over evil spirits and the chaos that demonic influence can cause.

What is the significance of the pigs in Matthew 8:32?

The pigs in Matthew 8:32 symbolize the destructive nature of evil. When the demons enter the pigs, they cause the herd to rush into the lake, highlighting the chaos and loss that can result from demonic possession.

What does the phrase 'ran violently down a steep bank' mean in Matthew 8:32?

The phrase 'ran violently down a steep bank' indicates the frantic and uncontrollable behavior of the pigs after being possessed by demons. It emphasizes the turmoil and destruction that evil can bring.

How does Matthew 8:32 relate to spiritual warfare?

Matthew 8:32 illustrates spiritual warfare by demonstrating Jesus' authority over demons and the impact of their influence on the physical world. It emphasizes the need to confront and seek deliverance from evil forces.

The Book of Matthew
Book Summary

The Book of Matthew

Matthew 1: The Generation and Birth of Jesus Christ

The book begins with the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. It records the generations from Abraham to David, from David until the carrying away into Babylon, and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ, each being fourteen generations. The genealogy concludes with Jacob begetting Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.

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