Mark 5:16Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

They approached Jesus and encountered the man who had once been fierce and instilled fear in them, now sitting peacefully at the feet of Jesus, fully clothed and in a sound state of mind. The man who had been tormented by demons, once capable of breaking chains and shackles, had been completely unclothed (Luke 8:27); given that he was now dressed, it is clear that Jesus' disciples provided him with clothing. Those who arrived discovered him to be in a sound mind; thus, they engaged in conversation with him and recognized through their dialogue that he was restored to clarity. The shepherds who had returned also participated in the discussion, and as eyewitnesses, they recounted the events to those who came.

In awe of this remarkable occurrence, the shepherds hurried to share the news in the towns and surrounding areas, prompting people to flock from all directions to witness the astounding guest in their land. There, they discovered that even the most fearsome and uncontrollable man tormented by evil spirits had experienced a stunning transformation. The miraculous visitor had healed him, and he was now as peaceful as a child. A compassionate hand had draped a garment over his bare and soiled body, and he sat at the feet of his Redeemer, wholly composed. Upon witnessing this, they were struck with fear. Yet their dread stemmed not merely from such a significant miracle, but from the profound loss they felt as a consequence of it.

The shepherds, upon witnessing the remarkable events, hurried to share the news throughout the city and surrounding villages. This startling announcement drew many to the scene to discover what had transpired. When they approached Jesus Christ, they encountered the man possessed by demons, known as Legion, sitting at His feet, fully clothed and in his right mind, which filled them with fear. Those who had witnessed the event recounted how the man had been liberated and what had happened to the swine. This account deepened their terror; they feared further calamities and, lamenting their losses, rejected the presence of the Lord. The entire community of the Gadarene region, along with the city residents, implored Him to depart from their territory. As St.