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Jesus accused of serving Beelzebul

“Any kingdom divided against itself will be ruined…” Jesus provides strong teaching to those who accuse him of serving the “prince of demons” by explaining the impossibility of such an accusation. This passage includes some significant themes to unpack as Jesus preaches unity wrapped in the context of “those who hear the word of God and obey it.”

Today’s passage is another perspective on the accusation that Jesus was acting under the authority of Beelzebul (Satan). The reference in Matthew and Mark point to the Pharisees and teachers of the law (See insight posted here); Luke simply states “some of them said.” This post will focus on the passage in Luke where the name Beelzebul is used 4 of 9 times in the New Testament (NIV).

Luke 11:14-28
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Seek and Find, Ask with shameless audacity and it will be given

The God of the universe invites us to seek him, to ask–this is part of the nature of our Father. Jeremiah writes, “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart” and Solomon records in Proverbs (personifying wisdom), “I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me.” Jeremiah 29:12-13, Proverbs 8:17. Matthew and Luke record Jesus’ words that give new meaning to seek and find with a promise that should encourage us all to seek: “because of your shameless audacity he will surely get up and give you as much as you need.”

Matthew 7:7-12, Luke 11:5-13
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Parable of the Good Samaritan

“And who is my neighbor?” This question prompted Jesus to tell the parable of the Good Samaritan. I suspect this parable is known inside and outside of Christian circles as it provides a solid moral truth about helping others. The story tells of a priest, a Levite and a Samaritan and it’s point is intuitively obvious even to the casual observer. The ending command is one that we need to hear: “Go and do likewise.”

Luke 10:25-37
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Return of those commissioned, the 72

The ambassadors return and are excited that they were able to do amazing things, even the demons were frightened of them. Jesus uses this as a teachable moment and explains this is what God was pleased to do and Jesus rejoiced, full of joy. Jesus tells them:

However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.

Rejoice in that which is eternal, not gloating, complete joy. Now this is the definition of success.

Luke 10:17-24
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Commissioning of the 72

Jesus sends out ambassadors, sheep among wolves, whether 70 or 72, it appears he has enough followers to pick a sizable group to begin expanding the ministry. This commissioning is only recorded in Luke, perhaps this is just Luke’s bias (as the author of Acts). The warnings are just as relevant today!

Luke 10:1-16
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The good shepherd and his sheep, Jews divided

Jesus is the gate, the good shepherd. “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy;” Jesus came to provide life to the full. The good shepherd is willing to lay down his life for the sheep, not so with the hired hand. In this passage Jesus is speaking to the Pharisees; some hear the lesson while others think he is insane. Odd isn’t it? Same story, same words, diametrically opposed reactions. Some things never change.

John 10:1-21
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