Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Mark 5:8

"For he said unto him, Come forth, thou unclean spirit, out of the man." — Mark 5:8 (ASV)

The demon’s address to Jesus admitted that he was in the presence of one who threatened his very existence. He used Jesus’ personal name and his title “Son of the Most High God.” His intent was to gain control over Jesus . Fearing that he would be exorcised, he pleaded exemption from torment. This may be a reference to eschatological punishment. Verse 8 seems to be an explanatory statement by Mark to make clear why the demon was acting so excitedly. Jesus had ordered him to come out of the man.