The demons feared being cast out because they knew Jesus had full authority over them and that their final judgment was inevitable. Their fear was not just of losing control over a person, but of being sent into the abyss or confined before the appointed time. They recognized Jesus as the Son of God and trembled before His power.
“And suddenly they cried out, saying, ‘What have we to do with You, Jesus, You Son of God? Have You come here to torment us before the time?’”
(Matthew 8:29)
This shows their awareness of future judgment. Demons are fallen angels, fully aware of their ultimate destiny under God’s wrath. They knew their end was sealed, and they feared premature confinement.
In Luke’s account, they begged Jesus:
“And they begged Him that He would not command them to go out into the abyss.”
(Luke 8:31)
The abyss refers to the bottomless pit mentioned in Revelation, a place of temporary imprisonment for demons (Revelation 20:1–3). Being cast there would mean being bound and unable to roam or influence. That’s what they feared, not mere relocation, but restraint and judgment.
Their fear also confirms Christ’s divine authority. Demons did not negotiate from a place of power. They begged:
“If You cast us out, permit us to go away into the herd of swine.”
(Matthew 8:31)
They submitted to His command without resistance. This affirms that Jesus does not struggle with demons. He commands, and they obey. Their fear highlights the absolute authority of the Son of God over all the spiritual realm.
The demons’ dread was not just of the moment but of their future. Jesus’ presence exposed them, defeated them, and reminded them that their time is short. They tremble at the name and presence of Christ because they know He is Judge.