Gospel of Mark Part 28: Who is Afraid of Jesus? [Small Group Discussion]
- Rev. Bruce A. Shields
- Jul 12
- 3 min read
Title: Who Should Fear Jesus?
Scripture Focus: Mark 5:1-20 – “Then they came to the other side of the sea, into the region of the Gerasenes. And when He got out of the boat, immediately a man from the tombs with an unclean spirit met Him… And He was asking him, ‘What is your name?’ And he said to Him, ‘My name is Legion; for we are many.’… And He said to him, ‘Go home to your people and report to them what great things the Lord has done for you, and how He had mercy on you.’ And he went away and began to preach in the Decapolis what great things Jesus had done for him; and everyone was marveling.”
OPENING QUESTION
If Jesus suddenly appeared in your community, do you think people would welcome Him—or ask Him to leave? Why?
BACKGROUND
After calming the storm, Jesus and His disciples arrived in the region of the Gerasenes (Decapolis). There, He encountered a man possessed by a “legion” of demons. With a word, Jesus freed him, sending the demons into a herd of pigs, which then rushed into the sea and drowned. This dramatic event revealed the destructive nature of demonic forces, the authority of Jesus over the spiritual realm, and the value He places on one soul. Yet, instead of rejoicing, the townspeople asked Him to leave.
KEY POINTS
1. The Demons Feared Jesus
The demons begged not to be tormented or sent away (Matthew 8:29).
They knew their ultimate fate—eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels (Matthew 25:41, Revelation 20:10).
1 John 3:8 tells us Jesus came to destroy the works of the devil.
If the spiritual enemies of God fear Christ’s authority, the unrepentant should as well (2 Thessalonians 1:7-9).
2. The Townspeople Feared Jesus
They saw the man healed, clothed, and in his right mind—but responded with fear.
Instead of seeking to know Him, they asked Him to leave (Mark 5:17).
Fear of the unknown and fear of change can rob us of God’s blessings.
Jesus offers rest (Matthew 11:28-30), spiritual freedom (John 8:31-36), and safety in His Word (Matthew 7:24-27).
3. The Freed Man Followed Jesus
He wanted to travel with Jesus after being delivered.
Jesus instead sent him to testify to his own community.
He obeyed, spreading the news of what Jesus had done, and people marveled.
Gratitude fuels boldness—when we understand what Jesus has done, we share it (1 Peter 3:15, Revelation 1:5).
APPLICATION
A. Recognize spiritual reality – Demonic forces are real and destructive, but Jesus has ultimate authority.
B. Don’t push Jesus away – Fear, pride, or love of comfort can cause us to reject His presence.
C. Share your testimony – Like the healed man, tell others “what great things the Lord has done” for you.
D. Examine your relationship with Jesus – Are you avoiding Him, ignoring Him, or following Him with gratitude?
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
Why do you think the demons recognized Jesus’ authority immediately?
Why were the townspeople more afraid of Jesus than of the demon-possessed man?
In what ways do people today “ask Jesus to leave” their lives or communities?
How has Jesus freed you from spiritual bondage, and how can you share that with others?
What does this passage teach us about the value of one soul in God’s eyes?
MEMORY VERSE
John 8:36 – “So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.”
PRAYER FOCUS
Pray for courage to welcome Jesus’ work in your life even when it challenges your comfort. Ask for boldness to share your testimony with others, so they, too, may see His mercy and power.
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