Luke 11:14-23

New Testament for Everyone

Jesus and Beelzebul

¹⁴ Jesus was casting out a demon that prevented speech. When the demon had gone out, the man who had been silent spoke, and the crowds were amazed. ¹⁵ But some of them said, “He casts out demons by Beelzebul, the prince of demons!” ¹⁶ Others, trying to test him out, asked him to produce a sign from heaven.

¹⁷ Jesus knew what they were thinking.

“Every kingdom split down the middle goes to ruin,” he said. “If a house turns in on itself, it falls. ¹⁸ Well then: if even the satan is split down the middle, how can his kingdom last? This,” he added, “is because you say that I cast out demons by Beelzebul!

¹⁹ “Now look: supposing I do cast out demons by Beelzebul, whose power are your own people using when they cast them out? Think about it: they will be your judges. ²⁰ But if it’s by God’s finger that I cast out demons, then God’s kingdom has come upon you.

²¹ “Imagine a strong man, armed to the teeth, guarding his palace. Everything he owns is safe and sound. ²² But supposing someone stronger comes and overpowers him, and takes away the armor he was trusting in—then he can help himself and start dividing up the plunder! ²³ If you’re not with me, you’re against me. If you’re not gathering with me, you’re scattering.