Luke 11:14-28
Q.1. How did Jesus refute the claim that He was in league with Beelzebub the ruler of demons? – (Lk.11:14-20)
Jesus had cast out a demon that had made a man mute – … and the crowds were amazed (Lk.11:14) Some of His opponents mocked Him by claiming that He was in league with Satan (Lk.11:15). Since – He knew their thoughts … He exposed their slur by explaining that Satan would hardly oppose his own kingdom, since that would bring about its destruction (verses Lk.11:17 c.f. Lk.11:17-18). Moreover, why would they accept the validity of the exorcisms from one of their own number? Jesus was one hundred percent successful whenever He cast out demons since He could discern the spiritual realm as easily as the natural … and because He was sovereign Lord over all creation (Lk.11:19). He sought to remove the slander that would keep the people from recognizing His Messiahship.
Q.2. How could Jesus claim that His power over demons indicated that the Kingdom of God had come upon them? – (Lk.11:16-23)
Some in the crowd were – demanding of Him a sign from heaven (Lk.11:16). Even the magicians of Egypt warned Pharaoh, when they acknowledged the signs of Moses, – This is the finger of God (c.f. Gen.8:19). Jesus reminded them of the thrilling truth with which the people of His day were familiar – But if I cast out demons by the finger of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you (Lk.11:20). He was God. None could overpower Him. He was claiming to be King of the Kingdom of God (Lk.11:22-23). With the coming of Jesus, believers would become part of His reign.
Q.3. What can we do to safeguard the progress of those who forsake a life of sin? What elements are involved in following up a convert? – (Lk.11:24-28)
In the Parable of the Sower and the Seeds, Jesus revealed that some receive the Word with joy. However, the experiences of affliction, persecution, worry of the world, and the deceitfulness of wealth can choke out the Word (c.f. Lk.8:4-15). We can sometimes be surprised that people who have had a dramatic transformation, later fall away. This parable here explains why this happens: People make some changes in their lives but fail to embrace the disciplines of the faith … so the old demons return – 24 When the unclean spirit goes out of a man, it passes through waterless places seeking rest, and not finding any, it says, `I will return to my house from which I came.’ 25 And when it comes, it finds it swept and put in order. 26 Then it goes and takes along seven other spirits more evil than itself, and they go in and live there; and the last state of that man becomes worse than the first (Lk.11:24-26). It is not enough to acknowledge how wonderful Jesus is. Rather – blessed are those who hear the word of God and observe it (Lk.11:28). This passage underscores the importance of faithful follow-up. New converts must be given a biblical basis for assurance, built on the Word of God. They also need to be shown how to be prepared for the trials that will test their faith.