“Demonization” (Mark 5:1-20)

DEMONIZATION

(Mark 5:1-20)

INTRODUCTION: The Bible is like a mirror.

I.DEMONIZATION IS UNIVERSAL.

II. DEMONIZATION IS A SPECTRUM.

III. DEMONIZATION IS DISINTEGRATING.

IV. DEMONIZATION IS DESTRUCTIVE.

 Questions for Family Review/Discussion:

1. Why do you think people are so fascinated by ghost stories?
2. In what way(s) does the Bible speak of a mirror? How is this story like a mirror?
3. What do you know about demonization? How much thought to give to evil influence in your day to day life? How much thought should we give to it?
4. What is the main work of the evil empire? What is its main goal?
5. Why do you think the Bible gives us so little information about demonic possession? Do you think demonic possession occurs today? Explain.
6. In what ways is demonic possession similar to addiction?
7. Explain: “Demonization is a spectrum.” What are some common, overlooked forms of demonization?
8. Was Jesus also demonized? Explain your answer.
9. What was the negative impact of demonization on the man in Mark 5? (Death- obsessed, defiant, detached, driven, distraught, self-destructive, and debased/depraved) How is this similar to common situations today?
10. Why did Jesus permit the demons to enter into the pigs? What does this tell us about their ultimate aim? How does this expose the folly of sin?