Definition: And, behold, they cried out, saying, What have we to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God? art thou come hither to torment us before the time?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that passage from Matthew 8:29. It's a really important and somewhat dramatic moment in Jesus’ ministry! Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Situation: Jesus is walking through a group of people – likely disciples or followers – who are upset with him. They’re feeling frustrated and perhaps even angry because he’s teaching about things they don’t understand or agree with. What They Say: They ask, “What have we to do with you, Jesus, if you are coming here to torment us before the time?” Let's unpack that: “Torment” : This is a strong word. It means to inflict pain or suffering. “Before the time” : This is key! They’re questioning whether he’s trying to punish them now . The Meaning – A Gentle Challenge: Jesus isn't really angry with them. He’s gently challenging their perspective. He’s saying, “I am here, and I want to teach you about [the topic they’re arguing about]. But I don't think this is the best way to handle it. I’m not trying to make your lives difficult.” Essentially, Jesus is inviting them to listen to him and consider his teachings. He wants them to understand that he’s here to help them grow in their faith, not to cause them pain. Why it's Significant: This verse is considered one of the earliest examples of Jesus teaching about the importance of humility and listening to others. It shows that Jesus wasn’t just focused on delivering a message; He was also interested in connecting with people and helping them understand his teachings. --- To help me explain it even better, could you tell me: What are you most curious about regarding this verse? (e.g., its historical context, its meaning for today?)