Olney Hymns · Chapter
The Legion Dispossessed explained
The chapter recounts the deliverance of a man possessed by a legion of demons, who is freed by Jesus Christ.
What happens
The chapter recounts the deliverance of a man possessed by a legion of demons, who is freed by Jesus Christ. The man, once filled with madness, sin, and woe, is rescued against his will and sent to tell others of the Lord's mercy and love.
Themes in this chapter
Grace and Unmerited Favor
The man is rescued against his will, illustrating that salvation is not earned but given freely by Christ's grace.
Spiritual Warfare
The chapter depicts the battle between Christ and Satan for the soul, with Christ's authority prevailing.
Characters to notice
- Jesus Christ
The Physician who heals the possessed man, commanding the demons to flee and granting peace and forgiveness.
- Satan
The tormentor who raged within the man's breast, but trembles and flees at Christ's command.
- The Narrator
The formerly possessed man who tells his own story of deliverance and is commissioned to share it.
Key passages
“I replied to my Physician, 'What have I to do with thee?'”
I questioned Jesus, wondering why he would concern himself with me.
The man's initial resistance to Christ's intervention.
“Had he stayed till I consented I had been a captive still.”
If Jesus had waited for my permission, I would have remained enslaved forever.
Emphasizes the necessity of Christ's initiative in salvation.
“Go and tell your friends and neighbours What my love has done for you.”
Go and share with your community the love I have shown you.
The commission to witness to others.