The term "demon-possessed man" refers to individuals in the Bible who were afflicted by evil spirits, resulting in various physical, mental, and spiritual disturbances. The New Testament provides several accounts of Jesus Christ encountering and delivering such individuals, demonstrating His authority over demonic forces.

Key Biblical Accounts:

1. The Gerasene Demoniac (Mark 5:1-20; Luke 8:26-39; Matthew 8:28-34):
One of the most detailed accounts of a demon-possessed man is found in the Synoptic Gospels, where Jesus encounters a man possessed by a legion of demons in the region of the Gerasenes. This man lived among the tombs and exhibited superhuman strength, breaking chains and shackles. He was in a state of constant torment, crying out and cutting himself with stones. Upon seeing Jesus, the demons within the man recognized Him and pleaded not to be sent into the abyss. Jesus permitted the demons to enter a herd of pigs, which then rushed down a steep bank into the sea and drowned. The man was restored to his right mind, and Jesus instructed him to share his testimony with others.

Mark 5:15 : "When they came to Jesus, they saw the man who had been possessed by the legion of demons sitting there, clothed and in his right mind, and they were afraid."

2. The Canaanite Woman's Daughter (Matthew 15:21-28; Mark 7:24-30):
Another significant account involves a Canaanite woman who approached Jesus, pleading for her daughter who was severely demon-possessed. Despite initial resistance, her persistent faith moved Jesus to heal her daughter. This account highlights the power of faith and Jesus' willingness to extend His mercy beyond the boundaries of Israel.

Matthew 15:28 : "Then Jesus answered, 'O woman, your faith is great! Let it be done for you as you desire.' And her daughter was healed from that very hour."

3. The Boy with a Mute Spirit (Mark 9:14-29; Matthew 17:14-21; Luke 9:37-43):
A father brought his son, who was possessed by a mute spirit, to Jesus after the disciples were unable to cast it out. The boy suffered from seizures and was often thrown into fire or water by the spirit. Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit, and the boy was healed. This incident underscores the necessity of faith and prayer in spiritual warfare.

Mark 9:25 : "When Jesus saw that a crowd was running to the scene, He rebuked the unclean spirit. 'You deaf and mute spirit,' He said, 'I command you to come out and never enter him again.'"

Theological Implications:

The accounts of demon possession in the New Testament reveal the reality of spiritual warfare and the presence of evil in the world. They also affirm the supreme authority of Jesus Christ over all spiritual entities. His ability to command demons and restore individuals to wholeness is a testament to His divine power and compassion.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In the first-century Jewish context, demon possession was often associated with physical and mental illnesses, though not all illnesses were attributed to demonic activity. The Jewish understanding of demons was influenced by intertestamental literature and the broader Greco-Roman world, which also recognized the existence of malevolent spiritual beings.

Practical Application:

For believers, the accounts of demon-possessed individuals serve as a reminder of the spiritual battles that persist today. Christians are called to rely on the power of Christ and the Holy Spirit in confronting evil, using prayer, Scripture, and faith as their primary weapons. The deliverance of demon-possessed individuals in the Bible also encourages believers to seek and trust in Jesus for healing and restoration in all areas of life.