Matthew 12:22-28

New International Reader's Version

Jesus and Beelzebul

²² A man controlled by demons was brought to Jesus. The man was blind and could not speak. Jesus healed him. Then the man could speak and see. ²³ All the people were amazed. They said, “Could this be the Son of David?”

²⁴ The Pharisees heard this. So they said, “This fellow drives out demons by the power of Beelzebul, the prince of demons.”

²⁵ Jesus knew what they were thinking. So he said to them, “Every kingdom that fights against itself will be destroyed. Every city or family that is divided against itself will not stand. ²⁶ If Satan drives out Satan, he fights against himself. Then how can his kingdom stand? ²⁷ You say I drive out demons by the power of Beelzebul. Then by whose power do your people drive them out? So then, they will be your judges. ²⁸ But suppose I drive out demons by the Spirit of God. Then the kingdom of God has come to you.