Bible Strands
Luke 11:18
If Satan is divided against himself, how can his kingdom stand? After all, you say that I drive out demons by Beelzebul.
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — Jesus addresses his accusers immediately after declaring that a divided kingdom or house falls. He responds directly to their claim that his exorcisms are powered by Beelzebul.
The words — διεμερίσθη (diemeristhē) translates literally as “is divided,” describing the internal fragmentation that would destroy any ruling authority.
The thread — This conditional argument appears in Matthew 12:26, which repeats the same logical structure regarding Satan’s self-division.
Why it lands — The text records Jesus pointing out the contradiction in attributing a unified act of power to a divided source. It requires the listener to recognize the flaw in their own premise before any further conclusion is drawn.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Greek words
King James Version
If Satan also be divided against himself, how shall his kingdom stand? because ye say that I cast out devils through Beelzebub.
Cross-references
- Matthew 12:26 If Satan drives out Satan, he is divided against himself. How then can his kingdom stand?
- Matthew 12:31 Therefore I tell you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven men, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven.
- Matthew 4:10 “Away from Me, Satan!” Jesus told him. “For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God and serve Him only.’”
- Luke 11:15 but some of them said, “It is by Beelzebul, the prince of the demons, that He drives out demons.”
- James 3:5 In the same way, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it boasts of great things. Consider how small a spark sets a great forest ablaze.