Book of Luke - Chapter 8 - Verse 31
Meaning
This verse comes from the Gospel of Luke, specifically from the account of Jesus casting out a legion of demons from a man in the region of the Gerasenes. The demons, recognizing Jesus' power and authority, beg him not to send them into the abyss, which is a place of confinement and punishment in Jewish belief. The demons ask to be sent into a nearby herd of pigs instead, as a way to escape the torment of the abyss. This verse highlights the fear and desperation of the demons, who would rather inhabit animals than face the consequences of their actions. It also showcases Jesus' power over evil forces, as he grants the demons' request and sends them into the pigs, who then run down a steep bank into the sea and drown. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of Jesus' authority and the consequences of defying him.
Theological Overview
In Luke 8:31, the demons plead with Jesus not to send them out into the deep. The word "deep" in this verse comes from the Greek word "abyssos," which can also be translated as "the abyss" or "bottomless pit." This word is often used in the Bible to refer to a place of chaos, darkness, and evil. The demons' fear of being sent into the deep reflects their dread of being separated from the world they know and are comfortable with. It also speaks to their recognition of the power and authority of Jesus over spiritual realms. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the spiritual battle between good and evil forces, with Jesus ultimately triumphing over the forces of darkness. By understanding the significance of the word "deep" in this context, we can gain insight into the nature of spiritual warfare and the ultimate victory that believers have in Christ.