Our scripture this morning is Mark 3:22-25 (NLT).
But the teachers of religious law who had arrived from Jerusalem said, “He’s possessed by Satan, the prince of demons. That’s where he gets the power to cast out demons.” Jesus called them over and responded with an illustration. “How can Satan cast out Satan?” he asked. “A kingdom divided by civil war will collapse. Similarly, a family splintered by feuding will fall apart.”
Jesus gives the religious leaders (and us) a double lesson in a few short sentences. The delegation from Jerusalem accuse Him of being possessed and using that power to cast out demons. Rather than merely denying this foolish claim, Jesus explains how it is wrong.
“How can Satan cast out Satan?” Jesus asks. He shows that this can’t be for it would mean evil is divided against itself. He tells them that “a kingdom divided by civil war will collapse.” Any group in this situation can’t have an effect on another.
There is more truth to be found here as He speaks about “a family splintered by feuding.” This could be us! When we are busy arguing with each other, as the scribes and Pharisees do with Jesus, we are ignoring the work God has for us. Jesus wants us all united in His love, standing together against evil as His brothers and sisters.
Gracious God, in Your mercy You sent Jesus to teach us and show us how to live in Your love. Bless us to go in Your name and Your strength to share the Good News everywhere. Amen.
