Matthew 12:28

"If I by Beelzebul cast out demons, by whom do your children cast them out? Therefore they will be your judges."

Key Reflection

Jesus challenges his opponents to recognize that if he is casting out demons through the power of Beelzebul, then those who follow him are also empowered by this same spirit, suggesting their actions will ultimately judge them. This implies that the source of their authority is the same, thus they cannot denounce Jesus' miracles without undermining their own legitimacy.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 28. But if I--by the Spirit of God, etc. The Spirit of God, here, means the power of God--in Luke, by the finger of God. Compare Ex 8:19; Ps 8:3. If this work is not by the aid of Satan, then it is by the aid of God. Then his kingdom, or reign, is come, Mt 3:2. The reign of Satan over men, and the reign of God, are in opposition. If God expels Satan from his dominion over men, then his reign has come. {z} "kingdom of God" Da 2:44; Mt 6:33; Lu 11:20; 17:21; Ro 14:17 __________________________________________________________________

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