Matthew 8:31

Mossi (SEBR SÕNGO) 1998

Sʋtãamba yeela a Zezi: «D kotame tɩ f sã n dig-d ka n yiis bɩ d tɩ kẽ kurkuya!»

What Does This Mean?

In this verse from Matthew, the devils (or demons) are begging Jesus to allow them to enter a herd of pigs if he casts them out of the people they possess. This shows their desperation and desire for some form of existence rather than being cast away.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have toy cars that suddenly come alive and start talking. They beg you, saying if you make them stop being toys, let them go play with other toy cars outside instead of just disappearing into thin air. That's kind of what this verse is about!

Historical Background

Matthew wrote his Gospel around AD 80-90 to a primarily Jewish-Christian audience. This verse reflects the cultural context where demons were believed to cause physical and mental ailments, and pigs were considered unclean animals by Jews.

Living It Out Today

In today’s world, imagine someone struggling with addiction who is offered help but asks for another way out rather than facing their issues directly. It shows how we often seek any solution other than the one that truly frees us.

Topics

• demons
• exorcism
• Jesus' power
• cleansing
• salvation
• sacrifice

Related Verses

• Mark 5:10
• Luke 8:32
• Leviticus 11:7
• Acts 19:13-16
• Matthew 4:24

Recommended Reading

Commentary Matthew Commentaries → Get This Bible Mossi (SEBR SÕNGO) Study Bible →

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did the devils want to go into the pigs?

The devils preferred inhabiting something rather than being cast out into nothingness. Pigs, seen as unclean animals by Jews, were a logical choice for them to possess.

What does this verse teach us about Jesus' power over evil forces?

This verse shows that Jesus has authority over demonic forces and can command them, demonstrating his ultimate control and power over evil.

How should we understand the fate of the pigs in this context?

The destruction of the pigs illustrates the seriousness with which Jesus dealt with evil. The loss of property was a consequence of confronting spiritual forces that were harmful to people's well-being.

What can we learn from the devils' plea for an alternative solution?

It reminds us that when faced with difficult situations or temptations, seeking alternatives rather than facing them head-on may result in harm, just as the pigs suffered. It's important to seek genuine freedom and healing.