Luke: A House Divided Cannot Stand

Read: Luke 11:14-23

We’re getting deeper and deeper into challenging concepts from Jesus that confused the original Jewish leadership while making modern theologians search for answers. In this case, Jesus is casting out a demon and fields objections by those in the crowd:

But some of them said, “By Beelzebul, the prince of demons, he is driving out demons.” Luke 11:15

The first argument provided by Jesus is straight-forward: why would Satan go about driving out his own demons? The logic is impossible to refute. I suspect there were lots of heads nodding in agreement as the “aha” moment sinks in.

But Jesus isn’t done yet. Since He has their attention He continues to explain that while it’s obviously not Satan, or Beelzebul, it must be from somewhere else. Here is both a challenge along with an answer. Verse 19 asks a penetrating question: “Whom do your followers drive out demons?” The direct implication puts them on the spot. Do they try to drive out demons? Crickets.

But if I drive out demons by the finger of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you. Luke 11:20

The phrase, “kingdom of God has come upon you” is critical. The way I read this Jesus is telling the people gathered at that time this significant truth, which of course applies today just as well: here, right in front of your eyes, you are seeing God’s work.

You’ve seen it, now you must make a decision. Jesus makes it clear:

Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters. Luke 11:23

Either in or out, there is no in between.

We are constantly confronted with the notion that there are lots of ways to God; many religions, but all the same God. Many have adopted this perspective, but Jesus is clear, there is only one way to the Father. It’s not about being a snob, it’s simply about understanding the truth.

Lord, we are with you! Help us to see how to gather with you today!