Matthew 12:22-30

Then a man was brought before Jesus who had a demon spirit that made him both blind and mute. Jesus healed him instantly, and he could see and talk again! The crowds went wild with amazement as they witnessed this miracle. And they kept saying to one another, “Could this man be the Messiah?” But when the Pharisees overheard what the people were saying, they said, “He casts out demons by the power of Satan, the prince of demons!” Jesus supernaturally perceived their thoughts and motives, so he told them this parable: “Any kingdom that fights against itself is reduced to ruins. And any family or community splintered by strife will fall apart. So if Satan casts out Satan, he is making war on himself. How then could his kingdom stand? So if Satan empowers me to cast out demons, who empowers your exorcists to cast them out? Go ask them, let them be your judges. But, if I drive out demons by the power of the Spirit of God, then the end of Satan’s kingdom has come! Who would dare enter the house of a mighty man and steal his property? First he must be overpowered and tied up by one who is stronger than he. Then his entire house can be plundered. “So join with me, for if you’re not on my side you are against me. And if you refuse to help me gather the spoils, you are making things worse.