Mark 5:20
And he departed, and began to publish in Decapolis how great things Jesus had done for him: and all men did marvel.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
Decapolis ('ten cities') was confederation of Greco-Roman cities in region east/southeast of Sea of Galilee. Founded after Alexander the Great's conquests, these cities maintained Greek culture under Roman rule. They were predominantly Gentile with minority Jewish populations. The healed demoniac became first Gentile evangelist recorded in Mark, foreshadowing gospel's expansion to all nations. His testimony prepared receptive audience for Jesus' later ministry. Early church emphasized testimony's evangelistic power—transformed lives authenticate gospel. Church history demonstrates that personal testimony often opens doors closed to formal preaching.
Questions for Reflection
- How does your transformation story provide natural evangelistic opportunities?
- What prevents you from openly 'publishing' what great things Jesus has done for you?
- How can you follow this man's example—proclaiming Christ's work in your sphere of influence?
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Analysis & Commentary
The healed man obeyed: 'he departed, and began to publish in Decapolis how great things Jesus had done for him: and all men did marvel.' The verb 'publish' (κηρύσσειν) means herald, proclaim publicly—the same word used for preaching gospel. He proclaimed 'in Decapolis' (ἐν τῇ Δεκαπόλει)—the ten Gentile cities, not his hometown only. His message: 'how great things Jesus had done'—focusing on Christ's work. The result: 'all men did marvel' (πάντες ἐθαύμαζον)—widespread amazement. His testimony prepared region for Jesus' return (Mark 7:31). Transformed lives provide powerful evangelistic testimony. Personal experience of Christ's saving power naturally produces witness.