Charles Spurgeon Commentary Matthew 8:34

"And behold, all the city came out to meet Jesus: and when they saw him, they besought [him] that he would depart from their borders." — Matthew 8:34 (ASV)

A rare occurrence—a whole city meeting Jesus and that city unanimous in their appeal to Him. Alas, it was the unanimity of evil! Here was a whole city at a prayer-meeting, praying against their own blessing.

Think of having the Lord among them, healing the worst of diseases, and yet entreating Him to go away from them! They would be rid of the one glorious Being who alone could bless them.

Horrible was their prayer, but it was heard, and Jesus departed from their region. He will not force His company on any. He will be a welcome guest, or He will be gone. What a mercy that our Lord does not hear every prayer of this sort! How would it fare with swearers if their imprecations were fulfilled?

O Lord, I thank you that you did not go away from me, when I, in my unregenerate condition, wished you to let me alone!