1. Bible Text: Luke 8: 26–39 Contending for the Mind Luke 8: 26 - 39

2. Meet Verona

3. “There are two equal and opposite errors into which our race can fall about the devil. One is to disbelieve in their existence. The other is to believe, and to feel an excessive and unhealthy interest in them. They themselves are equally pleased by both errors, and hail a materialist or a magician with the same delight.” - Screwtape Letters, C. S. Lewis

4. The Demoniac

5. Personality disorder in which his identity and individuality were consumed by the demons. Anti–social behavior that was manifested in his banishment to live in the seclusion of tombs, away from the civilization of human beings. Unusual spiritual insight that made him alert in recognizing Jesus as the Son of God and gave him unusual spiritual intelligence. Super–human strength that made him uncontrollable by normal methods of human control. He broke all attempted confining apparatus and set himself loose. Torment by causing those who fell victims to him to agonize constantly and Tendency towards self–destruction by continually doing harm to himself, using stones and other objects.

6. Desire of Ages, p. 255 He was roused to long for freedom from Satan’s control; but the demon resisted the power of Christ. When the man tried to appeal to Jesus for help, the evil spirit put words into his mouth, and he cried out in an agony of fear. The demoniac partially comprehended that he was in the presence of One who could set him free; but when he tried to come within reach of that mighty hand, another’s will held him, another’s words found utterance through him.

7. There is Hope “The demoniac, in place of prayer, could utter only the words of Satan; yet the heart’s unspoken appeal was heard.” - Desire of Ages, p 258

8. Be Prepared! “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” -Ephesians 6: 10 - 12

9. He is Mighty to Save!

10. Tell Your Story But the man from whom the demons had gone out was begging Him that he might accompany Him; but He sent him away, saying, ‘Return to your house and describe what great things God has done for you.’ So he went away, proclaiming throughout the whole city what great things Jesus had done for him” - Luke 8:38, 39.