LUKE 11:14-23
JESUS AND BEELZEBUL
INTRODUCTION
In Luke 11:14-23, Jesus performs an exorcism by casting out a demon from a mute man, resulting in the man regaining his speech. This miraculous act prompts a mixed reaction from the crowd; while some are amazed, others accuse Jesus of using the power of Beelzebul, the prince of demons, to drive out demons. In response to this accusation, Jesus presents a logical argument: a kingdom divided against itself cannot stand. He explains that if Satan were divided against himself, his kingdom would be doomed to collapse. By doing so, Jesus refutes the claim that He is in league with demonic forces and instead asserts that His power to exorcise demons is a clear indication of God’s kingdom at work among them.
Jesus further strengthens His argument by illustrating the concept of a divided house through a parable. He describes a strong man who guards his house and possessions, but when someone stronger attacks and overpowers him, the stronger man takes away the armor in which the man trusted and divides the spoils. This analogy underscores Jesus’ authority over Satan, portraying Himself as the stronger man who has come to dismantle Satan’s hold. Through this teaching, Jesus emphasizes the importance of unity and the destructive nature of division, whether in a household, kingdom, or spiritual realm. The passage concludes with Jesus’ declaration that whoever is not with Him is against Him, reinforcing the call for allegiance to God’s kingdom and the rejection of any form of spiritual compromise. This passage highlights the necessity for unity and unwavering commitment to Christ, warning against the perils of division and half-hearted allegiance, and affirms Jesus’ divine power and mission.
Luke 11:14 “He was driving out a demon that was mute, and when the demon had gone out, the mute person spoke, and the crowds were amazed.”
This miracle is also recounted by Matthew (Mt 12:22-32) and a similar one earlier (Mt 9:32-34), where the demoniac was blind and mute, and could see and speak after Jesus freed him from the demon. Mark 7:32-37 gives a slightly different account of a similar event.
Interpretation:
In Luke 11:14, Jesus performs a miracle by casting out a demon from a mute person, restoring the person’s ability to speak. This passage highlights several key aspects of Jesus’ ministry and the nature of His divine power.
1. Jesus’ Authority Over Demons:
The act of casting out demons is a testament to Jesus’ divine authority over evil spirits. This underscores Jesus’ mission to defeat the powers of darkness and bring about the Kingdom of God. The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 550) states, “The coming of God’s kingdom means the defeat of Satan’s: ‘If it is by the Spirit of God that I cast out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you’ (Mt 12:28).”
2. The Significance of Speech:
The restoration of speech to the mute person is symbolic of the broader theme of liberation and healing in Jesus’ ministry. Speech is a powerful gift, enabling communication and the proclamation of God’s glory. The healing of the mute person signifies the removal of barriers that prevent us from fully participating in and expressing our faith.
3. The Response of the Crowds:
The amazement of the crowds reflects a common reaction to Jesus’ miracles. This reaction is a call to faith, inviting onlookers to recognize and believe in Jesus’ divine nature. However, it also serves as a prelude to the challenges Jesus faces, as seen in subsequent verses where some accuse Him of casting out demons by the power of Beelzebul (Lk 11:15). This highlights the tension between faith and skepticism, a recurring theme in the Gospels.
4. The Broader Context of Jesus’ Mission:
Jesus’ miracles, including the casting out of demons, are integral to His mission of salvation. They not only demonstrate His divine power but also signify the breaking in of God’s Kingdom into human history. The healing miracles are a foretaste of the complete restoration and healing that will be fully realized in the eschatological fulfillment of God’s plan.
Reflection
As Christians, we are called to recognize Christ’s power over evil and to trust in His ability to liberate us from spiritual bondage. This passage reminds us of the ongoing spiritual battle we face and the importance of relying on God’s grace for protection and deliverance. It also challenges us to have faith in Christ’s healing power and to be witnesses to His miraculous works in our lives and the lives of others.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who came to heal and save us. We ask for Your grace to recognize the ways in which we are bound and in need of Your liberating power. Help us to trust in Jesus’ authority over all that afflicts us and to open our hearts to His healing touch. May we, like the crowds, be amazed at Your works and grow in faith and love each day. Empower us to use our voices to proclaim Your glory and to witness to Your Kingdom. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Luke 11:15 “But some of them said, ‘By Beelzebul, the prince of demons, he drives out demons.'”
This verse occurs after Jesus performs an exorcism, casting out a demon from a mute man, which leads the man to speak and amazes the crowd. Despite this miraculous act, some in the crowd accuse Jesus of using demonic power to cast out demons.
Catholic Interpretation
In the Catholic tradition, this passage is understood as a profound misunderstanding and rejection of Jesus’ divine authority and mission. The accusation that Jesus is in league with Beelzebul (another name for Satan) reflects a deep spiritual blindness and hardness of heart. This misinterpretation of Jesus’ actions highlights the tension between Jesus and the religious leaders of His time, who were often skeptical and hostile towards Him.
Key Points:
1. Divine Authority vs. Demonic Power: The accusation that Jesus uses demonic power to perform exorcisms is a grave misunderstanding of His divine authority. Jesus, being the Son of God, has power over all evil, including demons. His miracles and exorcisms are signs of the Kingdom of God breaking into the world (Lk 11:20).
2. Spiritual Blindness: The religious leaders’ inability to recognize Jesus’ divine power signifies their spiritual blindness. They are unable to see the truth of Jesus’ identity and mission, despite the clear evidence of His miracles (Jn 9:39-41).
3. Unity in God’s Kingdom: Jesus responds to this accusation by stating that a kingdom divided against itself cannot stand (Lk 11:17-18). This underscores the importance of unity in God’s Kingdom and the absurdity of Satan working against himself.
He drives out demons:
The gospels present demon-possession as a common phenomenon. Before the development of scientific clarity on the causes of diseases, people attributed mysterious disabilities to evil spirits. They believed in the presence of demons, especially at tombs and desert places. People attributed epilepsy (Mk 9:17-27), mental disorder (Mk 5:1-5), and physical disabilities like dumbness (Mt 9:32-33) and blindness (Mt 12:22) to demons. When the sick persons were convinced that demons possessed them, they would produce symptoms of demon-possession. For such people, the cure could happen only when they were convinced that the demon had left them.
The evangelists used “Unclean spirit” and “Demon” interchangeably in the Gospels to refer to supernatural beings who could enter the lives of humans and take control of them (Mt 12:43-45, Mk 5:2-5). The ancient world, including the Jews, believed in the influence of demons. There were different beliefs about their origin. One belief was that they were fallen angels that existed even before creation. Another belief was that they were the souls of wicked people who had died, continuing their malicious deeds by entering others’ bodies. The demon-possessed persons spoke as demons. They caused physical or mental disorders in the possessed person. The public considered people with “unclean spirit” as unclean and in need of ritual purification.
The Catholic teaching is that Satan (devil) and demons were angels created by God. But they became evil by their wrongdoing (CCC 391). These created spirits had rejected God and His reign out of their free choice (CCC 392). The sins of angels were unforgivable, and they had no chance for repentance, just as there is no chance of penitence for humans after death (CCC 393). However, the influence of Satan and his demons will end with the second coming of Jesus Christ.
God has allowed evil spirits to torment humans only until the day of the Last Judgement (Enoch 16:1, Jubilees 10:7-10). The demons knew that the appointed time had not arrived. So, they considered they could continue tormenting humans. However, Jesus, who had power over the evil spirits, expelled the demons from the demoniacs and liberated the possessed from their bondage.
By the power of Beelzebul, the chief of the demons:
Beelzebul (Beelzebub or Ba’al-zəbûb) was the god of Ekron (2 Kgs 1:2-3), one of the capital cities of the Philistines. The literal meaning of Baalzebub is “lord of flies,” “lord of dung,” or “lord of filth,” and Beelzebul in Aramaic means “lord of the house”. The Greek word Baalzebub is a combination of Baal and zebub. Baal means “lord,” and zebub means “exalted dwelling”. Thus, Baalzebub was the prince of demons who dwell in high places. Baal was a fertility god of the Canaanites in the Old Testament. The Israelites had the temptation to give up belief in their true God and worship the god of the Philistines and Canaanites. “They had abandoned the LORD and served Baal and the Astartes” (Judg 2:13).
Since the Beelzebub worshippers believed their god could fly, they portrayed him as a fly. They believed he was a sun god that brings the flies. People in the low-lying cities of the seacoast of Philistia might have worshipped this god to avert the plagues of flies and insects that infected them. The Israelites considered this god as a major demon. The Jews associated Beelzebub also with the Canaanite god Baal. Since worship of such gods was against the true God of Israel, Beelzebub became another name for Satan, the devil, or the prince of demons.
According to demonology, Beelzebub is one of the prominent fallen angels and prince of hell along with other fallen angels like Lucifer (the fallen angel of Light), Leviathan, and Astaroth. Baalzebul is associated with pride, gluttony, and idolatry. By the time of Christ, people used “Beelzebul” to represent Satan.
By accusing Jesus of casting out demons by the power of Beelzebul, the Jewish leaders were accusing Jesus of being a person of devil worship or an associate of Satan. They were trying to distract the attention and appreciation of the crowd who considered Jesus as the Messiah and encouraged them to see Jesus as an evil person. They acknowledged that only a person of divinity or Satanic influence could cast out the demon in such a situation. Jesus, through His argument, told them why that was a ridiculous idea and revealed Himself as the Son of God.
Reflection
As Christians, we are called to discern the works of God in our lives and in the world around us. The accusation against Jesus reminds us of the dangers of spiritual blindness and the importance of remaining open to the truth of God’s work. It challenges us to reflect on our own perceptions and judgments, ensuring they are aligned with God’s will and not clouded by prejudice or misunderstanding.
In our daily lives, we may encounter situations where the presence of God is not immediately evident. We must cultivate a heart of faith and trust, seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit to recognize and affirm God’s work, even when it defies our expectations or understanding.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who has power over all evil and brings Your Kingdom into our midst. Help us to recognize Your work in our lives and in the world around us. Grant us the grace to overcome spiritual blindness and to see with the eyes of faith. Lord, protect us from the deceptions of the enemy and keep us united in Your love. May we always discern Your truth and follow Your will with courage and conviction. Fill our hearts with Your Holy Spirit, that we may be instruments of Your peace and love in the world. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Luke 11:16 “Others, to test him, asked him for a sign from heaven.”
In this passage, some people among Jesus’ audience demanded a sign from heaven to test Him, even after witnessing numerous miracles. This request signifies a lack of faith and an attempt to undermine Jesus’ authority and mission. This act of demanding further proof reflects spiritual blindness and hardness of heart.
Biblical References and Context:
1. Luke 7:20-22:
“When the men came to him, they said, ‘John the Baptist has sent us to you to ask, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we look for another?”‘ At that time he cured many of their diseases, sufferings, and evil spirits; he also granted sight to many who were blind. And he said to them in reply, ‘Go and tell John what you have seen and heard: the blind regain their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, the poor have the good news proclaimed to them.'”
Jesus had already shown signs of His divine power proving His messiahship. Driving out the evil spirit from the demoniac was one such signs. Still, some Jewish leaders insisted that Jesus show them another sign from heaven.
2. Luke 4:1-13:
“Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, left the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, where for forty days he was tempted by the devil. … Jesus answered, ‘It is said: “Do not put the Lord your God to the test.”‘”
Jesus had already overcome tests from Satan after 40 days of fasting in the desert. The tests from the leaders were similar to Satan’s test. Their purpose was not out of a sincere desire to believe in Jesus. He did not comply with such requests for miracles to prove His divine identity.
3. Luke 23:8:
“When Herod saw Jesus, he was greatly pleased, because for a long time he had been wanting to see him. From what he had heard about him, he hoped to see him perform a sign of some sort.”
When Pilate sent Jesus for a trial to Herod, Herod hoped to see Jesus perform a sign. The opponents’ expectation was a sign like the Pillar of Cloud or the Fire of Elijah. However, Jesus refused to comply with their demand because He knew their negative intention.
4. Matthew 12:38-40:
“Then some of the scribes and Pharisees said to him, ‘Teacher, we wish to see a sign from you.’ But he answered them, ‘An evil and adulterous generation asks for a sign, but no sign will be given to it except the sign of the prophet Jonah. Just as Jonah was in the belly of the whale three days and three nights, so will the Son of Man be in the heart of the earth three days and three nights.'”
The Pharisees and the Scribes asked a sign from Jesus several times. His answer was the sign of Jonah, prefiguring His death and resurrection.
5. John 2:18-22:
“The Jews then said to him, ‘What sign can you show us for doing this?’ Jesus answered, ‘Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.’ But he was speaking about the temple of his body. Therefore, when he was raised from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this.”
Jesus’ answer about the destruction and raising of the temple referred to His body and resurrection, the ultimate sign of His divinity.
Catholic Teachings:
1. Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 548):
“The signs worked by Jesus attest that the Father has sent him. They invite belief in him. To those who turn to him in faith, he grants what they ask. So miracles strengthen faith in the One who does his Father’s works; they bear witness that he is the Son of God. But his miracles can also be occasions for ‘offense’; they are not intended to satisfy people’s curiosity or desire for magic. Despite his evident miracles, some people reject Jesus; he is even accused of acting by the power of demons.”
This teaching highlights that while Jesus’ miracles serve to build faith and confirm His divine mission, they are not meant to entertain or cater to skepticism. The demand for signs, therefore, reflects a deeper issue of disbelief and resistance to God’s revelation.
2. The nature of faith:
Those asking for a sign demonstrate a lack of faith, as they fail to recognize the miracles Jesus has already performed. True faith does not require constant miraculous proof.
3. Testing God:
The request for a sign can be seen as an attempt to test God, which goes against Jesus’ teaching in Luke 4:12, “You shall not put the Lord, your God, to the test.”
4. Hardness of heart:
Despite witnessing Jesus’ miracles, some still demanded more evidence. This reflects the hardness of heart that Jesus often encountered.
5. The sufficiency of Christ’s works:
Jesus’ miracles, teachings, and ultimately His death and resurrection, are sufficient signs of His divinity. As John 20:30-31 states, “Jesus did many other signs in the presence of [his] disciples that are not written in this book. But these are written that you may [come to] believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through this belief you may have life in his name.”
Reflection
As Christians, we are called to reflect on our own faith. Do we, like those in Luke 11:16, demand signs from God before we believe? Or do we trust in the signs He has already given us through Scripture, the teachings of the Church, and the witness of saints and fellow believers?
We must remember that faith is “the realization of what is hoped for and evidence of things not seen” (Heb 11:1). While God may choose to reveal Himself through miracles, we are called to trust in Him even when we cannot see or understand His ways.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we come before You with humble hearts. Forgive us for the times we have doubted Your presence or demanded signs of Your love. Help us to recognize Your work in our lives and in the world around us. Strengthen our faith, Lord, that we may trust in You even when we cannot see Your hand at work. Grant us the wisdom to discern Your will and the courage to follow it. May we, like the Blessed Virgin Mary, respond to Your call with a resounding “yes,” trusting in Your plan for our lives. We ask this through Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.
Luke 11:17 “But he knew their thoughts and said to them, ‘Every kingdom divided against itself will be laid waste and house will fall against house.'”
In Luke 11:17, Jesus addresses the accusations from some of the crowd that He casts out demons by the power of Beelzebul, the prince of demons. Jesus, perceiving their thoughts, responds with a profound truth about unity and division. This passage emphasizes the destructive nature of division and the necessity of unity, especially within the kingdom of God.
Jesus knew their thoughts and said to them:
The words people express need not contain the full thoughts or intentions of the speakers. When Jesus drove out a demon from the dumb man, the thoughts and reaction of the people present were diverse. The person whom Jesus healed, and those who brought him, might have felt grateful to Jesus. Most bystanders expressed their amazement, thanking God for such a blessing that came through Jesus. Those who could not recognize the divine power in Jesus blamed Him as a coworker of Beelzebul, thus trying to divert the appreciation of the people who expressed amazement at the miracle. Another group asked Jesus to show more signs to prove His Messiahship. With His divine knowledge, Jesus could understand the bad intention behind their blaming. So, He logically addressed the absurdity of their contention.
Every nation divided by civil war is on the road to ruin:
When we look at the history of the world, whenever there was disunity and fighting within a nation, it ended up in division and enormous loss of resources and lives. Both parties become weak, and they could face challenges from outside enemies as well. Israel was strong when they were faithful to God and united among themselves. They could invade the strong Canaanites and occupy Canaan under the leadership of Joshua. After the reign of Solomon, when division happened in Israel, they became weak. Both Northern and Southern Israel ended up in exile by the Assyrians and Babylonians. Unity and teamwork are essential for any nation to survive. So Beelzebul would never allow a person to expel demons from a demoniac because that would be against his own goal.
A family divided against itself will be destroyed:
As with a nation, there must be unity and team spirit in the family. The first family disunity happened, according to the Bible, with the jealousy of Cain against his brother Abel ending up in the martyrdom of Abel and the deportation of Cain. “Cain then left the LORD’s presence and settled in the land of Nod, east of Eden” (Gen 4:16).
When Abram and Lot returned to Canaan from Egypt, “the land could not support them if they stayed together; their possessions were so great that they could not live together” (Gen 13:6). “There were quarrels between the herders of Abram’s livestock and the herders of Lot’s livestock” (Gen 13: 7). Abram avoided potential conflict between their families and found an amicable solution. “So Abram said to Lot: ‘Let there be no strife between you and me, or between your herders and my herders, for we are kindred. Is not the whole land available? Please separate from me. If you prefer the left, I will go to the right; if you prefer the right, I will go to the left’” (Gen 13:8-9). “Lot, therefore, chose for himself the whole Jordan Plain and set out eastward. Thus they separated from each other” (Gen 13:11). According to Jesus, since all demons are united like a family under Beelzebul, they would not have conflicting action among themselves. So, Beelzebul would not collaborate with an outsider like Jesus to drive out a demon from a demoniac.
Catholic Understanding
The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) emphasizes the importance of unity in several sections:
– CCC 813: “The Church is one because of her source: ‘the highest exemplar and source of this mystery is the unity, in the Trinity of Persons, of one God, the Father and the Son in the Holy Spirit.'”
– CCC 820: “Christ bestowed unity on his Church from the beginning. This unity, we believe, subsists in the Catholic Church as something she can never lose, and we hope that it will continue to increase until the end of time.”
Jesus’ teaching in this verse aligns with the Catholic understanding of the Church’s need for unity. The division is seen as contrary to God’s plan, weakening the community and leading to destruction. St. Paul also echoes this in his letters, particularly in 1 Corinthians 1:10, where he urges the faithful to avoid divisions and be united in mind and thought.
Reflection
As followers of Christ, we are called to be united in faith and purpose. Our Lord’s words remind us that division weakens us, while unity in Christ strengthens us. We must be vigilant against forces that seek to divide us, whether they come from external pressures or internal conflicts.
In our families, communities, and the broader Church, we are challenged to foster unity without compromising truth. This requires humility, love, and a constant turning towards Christ, who is the source of our unity.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of unity in Your Church. Help us to recognize and resist the forces of division in our lives and communities. Grant us the grace to seek reconciliation where there is discord, to build bridges where there are walls, and to promote understanding where there is misunderstanding. May we be instruments of Your peace, reflecting the unity of the Trinity in our words and actions. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Luke 11:18 “If Satan also is divided against himself, how will his kingdom stand? For you say that I cast out demons by Beelzebul.”
This verse is part of a larger passage where Jesus addresses accusations from some of the crowd who claim that He casts out demons by the power of Beelzebul, the prince of demons. Beelzebul would not cooperate with Jesus to cast out the demon from the demoniac because, by doing so, he would destroy his own power. If Satan aided Jesus against his interests, then the kingdom of hell would divide against itself. The reign of Satan and the Kingdom of God oppose each other. So, Satan would not cooperate to work against his kingdom. Hence, the argument of the Pharisees that Jesus healed the demoniac with the support of Beelzebul was not logical. Thus, Jesus counter argued that He was the Son of God and with that authority, He drove out the demon from the mute demoniac. By saying so, Jesus admitted the united and organized kingdom of the demons against humans under the leadership of Beelzebul or Satan. Jesus claimed to have the power and willingness to defeat that kingdom to save humanity from the attack of the evil one.
This verse emphasizes several key theological points:
1. Unity in the Kingdom of God: Jesus highlights the absurdity of Satan working against himself. This underscores the importance of unity within the Kingdom of God. Division and internal conflict weaken any kingdom, including that of evil. By contrast, the Kingdom of God is marked by harmony and unity, reflecting the unity of the Holy Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit).
2. Authority of Christ: Jesus’ ability to cast out demons is a testament to His divine authority. This authority is not derived from any evil power but from God Himself. The Catholic Church teaches that Jesus’ miracles, including exorcisms, are signs of the in-breaking of God’s Kingdom and the defeat of Satan.
3. Spiritual Warfare: This passage also touches on the theme of spiritual warfare. The Church teaches that Christians are engaged in a spiritual battle against the forces of evil. Jesus’ victory over demons is a foretaste of His ultimate victory over sin and death through His crucifixion and resurrection.
Biblical References:
1. Matthew 12:25-26 – In this parallel account, Jesus says, “Every kingdom divided against itself is laid waste, and no city or house divided against itself will stand.”
2. Mark 3:24-25 – Similarly, “If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand.”
3. Acts 10:38 – Peter affirms, “God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power; he went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him.”
4. 1 John 3:8 – “The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the works of the devil.”
Catholic Teachings:
The Catholic Church teaches that Jesus is the incarnate Son of God, who has authority over all evil spirits. The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) states:
– CCC 447 – “Jesus is Lord.”
– CCC 550 – “The coming of God’s kingdom means the defeat of Satan’s: ‘If it is by the Spirit of God that I cast out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you.'”
– CCC 2851 – “In this petition to our heavenly Father, Christ also implores victory over the tempter and his minions.”
Reflection:
In reflecting on Luke 11:18, we are reminded of the importance of unity within the Church. Just as a kingdom divided against itself cannot stand, so too must we strive for unity among believers. This unity is not merely organizational but deeply spiritual, rooted in our shared faith in Christ and the sacraments.
Moreover, this passage calls us to recognize the reality of spiritual warfare. We are constantly in a battle against the forces of darkness, and we must rely on the power of Christ to overcome them. Jesus’ authority over demons assures us that He is with us in our struggles and that His power is greater than any evil we may face.
As Christians, let us take to heart the message of Luke 11:18. Let us strive for unity within our communities and be vigilant in our spiritual lives. May we always turn to Christ, our source of strength and victory, trusting in His power to overcome all evil.
Prayer:
Prayer for Unity and Strength in Spiritual Warfare
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who has triumphed over sin and death. Help us to remain united in faith, love, and purpose, reflecting the unity of the Holy Trinity. Strengthen us in our spiritual battles, and grant us the grace to rely on Your power and not our own.
Lord Jesus, You have shown us that a kingdom divided cannot stand. Heal any divisions within our hearts, our families, and our Church. May we always seek to build up rather than tear down, to forgive rather than hold grudges, and to love as You have loved us.
Holy Spirit, fill us with Your presence and guide us in all truth. Equip us with the armor of God so that we may stand firm against the schemes of the devil. Grant us wisdom, courage, and perseverance in our daily lives. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Luke 11:19 “And if I drive out demons by Beelzebul, by whom do your people drive them out? So then, they will be your judges.”
In this verse, Jesus responds to accusations from the Pharisees that He casts out demons by the power of Beelzebul, the prince of demons. He refutes their claim by highlighting the inconsistency and hypocrisy of their logic. If Jesus drives out demons by Beelzebul, then by whose power do their own exorcists, referred to as “sons of the Prophets,” perform exorcisms? This question exposes the flawed reasoning of His accusers and implies that their own exorcists would condemn them for their accusations.
Additional Biblical References
1. Acts 19:13 – This passage describes Jewish exorcists who invoked the name of Jesus to cast out demons, showing that even non-followers recognized the power of Jesus’ name.
2. Luke 9:49-50 – John recounts someone casting out demons in Jesus’ name, with Jesus affirming, “Do not prevent him, for whoever is not against you is for you,” indicating that the power of exorcism in His name was acknowledged even outside His immediate followers.
Catholic Teachings
1. Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) 550: The Catechism explains that Jesus’ exorcisms are a sign that the kingdom of God has come upon us, illustrating His divine authority and the defeat of Satan.
2. CCC 2850: This section discusses deliverance from evil in the Lord’s Prayer, emphasizing Jesus’ victory over sin and evil through His divine power.
3. Papal Encyclicals: In the encyclical ‘Dives in Misericordia’, Pope John Paul II speaks of Christ’s victory over sin and evil through His divine mercy and power.
Reflection
Jesus’ response in Luke 11:19 is a powerful lesson on the importance of truth and consistency in our judgments. His ability to cast out demons by divine authority reassures us of His power over all evil. As followers of Christ, we are called to trust in His authority and seek His guidance in overcoming spiritual battles. This passage also invites us to open our eyes to God’s presence and power in our lives and the world, recognizing the “finger of God” at work even amidst evil.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the authority and power of Your Son, Jesus Christ, over all evil. Help us to discern truth from falsehood and to remain steadfast in our faith. Grant us the courage to confront the evils in our lives and the wisdom to trust in Your divine protection. May we always seek Your guidance and rely on Your strength in our spiritual battles. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Luke 11:20 “But if it is by the finger of God that I cast out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you.”
Here, Jesus responds to those accusing Him of casting out demons by Beelzebul, the prince of demons. He clarifies that His power to drive out demons comes from God, not from any evil source. By stating “if it is by the finger of God that I cast out demons,” Jesus references the divine authority and power granted to Him by God the Father. The “finger of God” is a term used to denote God’s active power and presence. This phrase echoes the Old Testament, particularly Exodus 8:19, where the magicians of Egypt recognize the power of God in the plagues sent by Moses.
“By the Finger of God”
“By the finger of God” is an anthropomorphic or figurative expression of the powerful intervention of God. Matthew used “by the Spirit of God” (Mt 12:28) for the same incident in his gospel. We see similar expressions elsewhere in the Bible:
1. According to the order of the LORD through Moses, Aaron struck the dust of the earth and gnats came upon human beings and beasts. The Egyptian magicians tried to do the same, but failed. Then they told the Pharaoh about the plague, “This is the finger of God” (Ex 8:15).
2. When the Israelites arrived at Mount Sinai, the LORD spoke to Moses and “gave him the two tablets of the covenant, the stone tablets inscribed by God’s own finger” (Ex 18:31; 31:18; Deut 9:10).
3. Creation per se was the work of God’s fingers. “When I see your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars that you set in place – what is man that you are mindful of him” (Ps 8:4-5).
4. When King Belshazzar laid out a banquet for a thousand of his nobles, he used the gold and silver vessels his father Nebuchadnezzar had taken from the Temple in Jerusalem. While they were drinking and praising their gods, “the fingers of a human hand appeared, writing on the plaster of the wall in the king’s palace. When the king saw the hand that wrote, his face became pale; his thoughts terrified him, his hip joints shook, and his knees knocked” (Dan 5:5-6). Daniel interpreted it, saying, “the God in whose hand is your very breath and the whole course of your life, you did not glorify. By him was the hand sent, and the writing set down” (Dan 5:23b-24).
5. While Jesus was in the Temple area instructing the people, the Scribes and the Pharisees brought a woman caught in adultery. When they asked Jesus whether they should stone her according to the Law, “Jesus bent down and began to write on the ground with his finger” (Jn 8:6, 8).
Thus “the finger of God” represents the immense power of God and with no labour.
The Kingdom of God Has Come Upon You
The opponents of Jesus agreed that the driving out of demons by Jesus was superhuman. He could do it either with the power of Satan or with the Spirit (power) of God (Mt 12:28). Though they accused Jesus of doing it with the power of Beelzebul, Jesus refuted it and proved that the finger of God was at work through him in his miracles, especially in casting out demons. That was the sign of the establishment of the kingdom of God. So, it was already in their midst through Jesus. Its full consummation will happen only at his second coming.
The proof of Jesus’ Messiahship that he gave to John the Baptist’s disciples was, “The blind regain their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, the poor have the good news proclaimed to them” (Lk 7:22). When Jesus sent his disciples ahead of him to the villages and towns, he said, “Cure the sick in it and say to them, ‘The kingdom of God is at hand for you’” (Lk 10:9). They were manifesting extraordinary work of the Spirit of God through their healing. That must be the proof for their listeners to believe the truthfulness of their announcement of the Kingdom of God.
The declaration that “the kingdom of God has come to you” is crucial. It indicates that Jesus’ ministry, particularly his power over evil spirits, is a sign that God’s reign is breaking into the world. This aligns with Jesus’ proclamation at the beginning of his ministry: “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent, and believe in the gospel” (Mark 1:15).
Reflection
As Christians, we are called to recognize the signs of God’s kingdom in our midst. Just as Jesus’ exorcisms demonstrated God’s power over evil, we too are empowered by the Holy Spirit to resist sin and spread the light of Christ in the world. Our baptism incorporates us into this mission of advancing God’s kingdom.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank you for sending your Son Jesus to establish your kingdom among us. Grant us the grace to recognize your presence in our lives and the courage to participate in your work of liberation and healing. May your Holy Spirit guide us in our daily struggles against evil, so that we may be effective witnesses to your love and power. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Luke 11:21-22 “When a strong man, fully armed, guards his palace, his possessions are safe. But when one stronger than he attacks and overpowers him, he takes away the armor in which the man trusted and divides up his plunder.”
In this passage, Jesus speaks of the battle between good and evil, using the metaphor of a strong man to represent the devil, who guards his possessions (those under his influence) zealously. The stronger man symbolizes Jesus Himself, who has come to overpower and defeat the devil, liberating those who have been held captive by sin.
Jesus illustrates how He would establish the Kingdom of God by defeating Satan’s domain in the world, or in the lives of individuals. He uses an illustration of breaking into a house seized by the enemy. The occupant’s goods were secure when he had strong and armed security. However, when a stronger man defeats the other, the stronger will capture all the weapons of the other and destroy his gains. Here, the strong and armed man who guards the house is Satan. The house is the world that is in his control or the souls of people in sin. His goods stand for the evil in the world or in the person armed by Satan. As long as Satan guards the sinner, his evil works are safe for him. During that domain of the devil, the sinner feels peace. That will alter when Jesus enters the scene.
In verse 22, Jesus Christ, the stronger one, attacks and overcomes Satan, the strong one. By His incarnation, ministry, death, and resurrection, Jesus attacks and defeats Satan’s kingdom. He disarms the devil of his power and frees those who were once under his control. John the Baptist introduced Jesus as “one mightier than me” (Lk 3:16). This fulfills God’s promise to the serpent after the fall of our First Parents: “I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; they will strike at your head, while you strike at their heel” (Gen 3:15). Thus, Jesus Christ is mightier than Satan and victorious in the end.
Supporting Biblical References:
1. Genesis 3:15 – “I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.”
2. Colossians 2:15 – “He disarmed the principalities and powers and made a public example of them, triumphing over them in it.”
3. 1 John 3:8 – “The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the works of the devil.”
4. Revelation 12:10-11 – “Now have salvation and power come, and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Anointed. For the accuser of our brothers is cast out, who accuses them before our God day and night. They conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.”
Catholic Teachings:
The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) reinforces this understanding of Christ’s victory over Satan. In CCC 391-395, the Church teaches about the reality of the devil and his defeat through Christ. CCC 635 explains that “Jesus descended into the lower parts of the earth. He who descended is also he who ascended far above all the heavens, that he might fill all things. The descent into hell brings the Gospel message of salvation to complete fulfillment.”
The Church also emphasizes the importance of spiritual warfare in the life of a Christian. Ephesians 6:10-18 instructs believers to “put on the whole armor of God” to stand against the devil’s schemes. This passage underscores the necessity of relying on God’s strength and the means of grace provided by the Church, such as the sacraments, prayer, and scripture, to resist and overcome evil.
Reflection:
As Christians, we are called to recognize the reality of the spiritual battle that surrounds us. While the devil is a formidable adversary, we are assured of Christ’s victory and His promise to be with us always. We must therefore cling to Jesus, who is stronger than any force of evil. By living in His grace and making use of the spiritual armor He provides, we can stand firm in faith and resist the devil’s attempts to lead us astray.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, Stronger One, we thank You for Your victory over Satan and all evil. Help us to trust in Your power and to seek Your protection in times of spiritual warfare. Grant us the grace to remain faithful to You and to be instruments of Your liberating love in the world. May we always remember that in You, we are more than conquerors. Amen.
Luke 11:23 “Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters.”
Jesus is responding to the accusations that He casts out demons by the power of Beelzebul, the prince of demons. This passage is part of a larger discourse where Jesus emphasizes the importance of unity and allegiance to Him. The context includes Jesus performing an exorcism, which leads to amazement among the crowds but also skepticism and accusations from some who claim He is in league with demonic forces (Lk 11:14-15).
Unity in Christ:
Jesus’ statement, “Whoever is not with me is against me,” underscores the necessity of choosing sides in the spiritual battle between good and evil. In the Catholic tradition, this verse is interpreted as a call to unwavering loyalty to Christ. It highlights the impossibility of neutrality in matters of faith; one is either aligned with Christ or opposed to Him. This aligns with the broader Catholic teaching that emphasizes the importance of being part of the Church, the Body of Christ, and participating in its sacramental life.
Though Jesus the Savior defeated Satan and recovered humanity from the scourge of Original Sin, the people have to cooperate with Jesus and become part of His mystical body. Those who refuse the privilege of joining Him for grace will lose the chance of ever entering into the lost paradise that Eden represents. People must choose for or against Jesus; neutrality is not an option. Apart from Jesus, there is no eternal salvation.
Comparing Himself to a vine, Jesus told His disciples, “Remain in me, as I remain in you. Just as a branch cannot bear fruit on its own unless it remains on the vine, so neither can you unless you remain in me. I am the vine, you are the branches. Whoever remains in me and I in him will bear much fruit, because without me you can do nothing. Anyone who does not remain in me will be thrown out like a branch and wither; people will gather them and throw them into a fire and they will be burned” (Jn 15:4-6). Paul wrote to the Romans about the diverse functions of Christians in union with Jesus, “For as in one body we have many parts, and all the parts do not have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ and individually parts of one another” (Rom 12:4-5).
Spiritual Warfare:
The passage also touches on the theme of spiritual warfare. Jesus’ exorcism demonstrates His authority over demonic forces, affirming that His power comes from God. The Catholic Church teaches that Jesus’ victory over evil is definitive, and believers are called to participate in this victory through faith and the sacraments. This reflects the Church’s understanding of the ongoing battle between good and evil and the need for Christians to be vigilant and active in their faith.
Though we are in the world at present, we should “know that we belong to God, and the whole world is under the power of the evil one” (1 Jn 5:19). So, John wrote, “Do not love the world or the things of the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, sensual lust, enticement for the eyes, and a pretentious life, is not from the Father but is from the world. Yet the world and its enticement are passing away. But whoever does the will of God remains forever” (1 Jn 2:15-17). Paul wrote to the Romans, “Do not conform yourselves to this age but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and pleasing and perfect” (Rom 12:2). James wrote, “Do you not know that to be a lover of the world means enmity with God? Therefore, whoever wants to be a lover of the world makes himself an enemy of God” (Jm 4:4). Peter warns, “Be sober and vigilant. Your opponent the devil is prowling around like a roaring lion looking for [someone] to devour” (1 Pet 5:8). Jesus prayed to the Father for His disciples, “I do not ask that you take them out of the world but that you keep them from the evil one” (Jn 17:15). Hence, Jesus told His apostles, “In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world” (Jn 16:33).
Reflection
As Christians, we are called to make a clear choice to follow Christ wholeheartedly. This passage challenges us to examine our loyalties and ensure that we are not passively standing by but actively participating in the mission of the Church. It reminds us that our actions, whether we gather with Christ or scatter, have significant spiritual implications. In our daily lives, we must strive to align ourselves with Christ through prayer, the sacraments, and acts of charity.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who has shown us the path to eternal life. Help us to remain steadfast in our faith and loyal to Your teachings. Grant us the courage to stand with Christ in all circumstances and to gather others into Your loving embrace. May Your Holy Spirit guide us in our daily actions, so that we may always work for the unity and growth of Your Kingdom. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
CONCLUSION
Luke 11:14-23 presents a powerful narrative of Jesus’ authority over demonic forces and the importance of unity in God’s Kingdom. Jesus’ exorcism of the mute man demonstrates His divine power and elicits varied reactions from the crowd, ranging from amazement to skepticism. Jesus refutes the accusation of casting out demons by Beelzebul with logical arguments, highlighting the absurdity of a divided kingdom. He underscores the destructive nature of division and emphasizes the necessity of unity, whether in a household, a kingdom, or the spiritual realm. Through His teachings, Jesus calls for unwavering allegiance to God’s kingdom and warns against the perils of division and half-hearted commitment.
The passage concludes with Jesus’ assertion that those who are not with Him are against Him, reinforcing the call for total commitment to Christ. This narrative reminds us of the ongoing spiritual battle and the importance of relying on God’s grace for protection and deliverance. It challenges us to have faith in Christ’s healing power and to be witnesses to His miraculous works. As followers of Christ, we are called to recognize His power over evil, trust in His ability to liberate us from spiritual bondage, and actively participate in His mission to bring about God’s Kingdom on earth.
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who came to heal and save us. We ask for Your grace to recognize the ways in which we are bound and in need of Your liberating power. Help us to trust in Jesus’ authority over all that afflicts us and to open our hearts to His healing touch. May we, like the crowds, be amazed at Your works and grow in faith and love each day. Empower us to use our voices to proclaim Your glory and to witness Your Kingdom. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.