Matthew 8:30
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 8:30
30 And there was a good way off from them an herd of many swine feeding.
Chapter Context
Matthew 8 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of grace, judgment, salvation. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-90 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christianity was separating from Judaism following Jerusalem's destruction.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-34: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Matthew and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Matthew 8:30
30 And there was a good way off from them an herd of many swine feeding.
Analysis
The presence of 'a good way off from them an herd of many swine feeding' confirms this is Gentile territory, as Jews considered swine unclean and wouldn't raise them. The detail sets up the demons' request to enter the pigs, demonstrating both Christ's absolute authority over demons and the destructive nature of demonic power. That demons prefer embodiment in unclean animals to disembodiment shows the horror of their existence under God's judgment.
Historical Context
Pigs were raised primarily for Gentile consumption in the Decapolis region. The presence of a large herd (Mark 5:13 says about 2000) indicates significant commercial operation. The herdsmen's livelihood would be destroyed by what follows, explaining their hostile reaction to Jesus.
Reflection
- What does the demons' preference for embodiment in pigs over disembodiment reveal about the misery of their judged condition?
- How does the subsequent destruction of the pigs demonstrate that demonic power always leads to destruction and chaos?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Leviticus 11:7, Deuteronomy 14:8, Mark 5:11