^9 (A)If we confess our sins, he is ^(B)faithful and just to forgive us our sins and ^(C)to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

¹⁵ But some of them said, “He casts out demons ^(A)by Beelzebul, the prince of demons,” ¹⁶ while others, ^(B)to test him, kept seeking from him a sign from heaven. ^17 (C)But he, ^(D)knowing their thoughts, said to them, “Every kingdom divided against itself is laid waste, and a divided household falls. ¹⁸ And if Satan also is divided against himself, how will his kingdom stand? For you say that I cast out demons by Beelzebul. ¹⁹ And if I cast out demons by Beelzebul, ^(E)by whom do ^(F)your sons cast them out? Therefore they will be your judges. ²⁰ But if it is by ^(G)the finger of God that I cast out demons, then ^(H)the kingdom of God has come upon you. ²¹ When a strong man, fully armed, guards his own palace, his goods are safe; ^22 (I)but when one stronger than he attacks him and ^(J)overcomes him, he takes away his ^(K)armor in which he trusted and ^(L)divides his spoil. ^23 (M)Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters.

Return of an Unclean Spirit

^24 (N)“When the unclean spirit has gone out of a person, it passes through ^(O)waterless places seeking rest, and finding none it says, ‘I will return to my house from which I came.’

⁴ Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, ^(A)but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.