14-16 Jesus delivered a man from a demon that had kept him speechless. The demon gone, the man started talking a blue streak, taking the crowd by complete surprise. But some from the crowd were cynical. “Black magic,” they said. “Some devil trick he’s pulled from his sleeve.” Others were skeptical, waiting around for him to prove himself with a spectacular miracle.
17-20 Jesus knew what they were thinking and said, “Any country in civil war for very long is wasted. A constantly squabbling family falls to pieces. If Satan cancels Satan, is there any Satan left? You accuse me of ganging up with the Devil, the prince of demons, to cast out demons, but if you’re slinging devil mud at me, calling me a devil who kicks out devils, doesn’t the same mud stick to your own exorcists? But if it’s God’s finger I’m pointing that sends the demons on their way, then God’s kingdom is here for sure.
21-22 “When a strong man, armed to the teeth, stands guard in his front yard, his property is safe and sound. But what if a stronger man comes along with superior weapons? Then he’s beaten at his own game, the arsenal that gave him such confidence hauled off, and his precious possessions plundered.
23 “This is war, and there is no neutral ground. If you’re not on my side, you’re the enemy; if you’re not helping, you’re making things worse.
Jesus proclaimed that God's Kingdom is here for sure for He had demonstrated its power through casting out the demons. Jesus has come to proclaim the Kingdom, heal the sick, and cast out the demons by the power of the Spirit. That is not just a biblical story two thousand years ago but Jesus' kingdom ministry is still being manifested by His church on earth. Jesus proclaims that there is no neutral ground - either we are with Him or we are against Him. Let's get rid of our unbelieving hearts, absolutely following Our Master Jesus, working alongside Him, trusting in His words and His Spirit, faithfully proclaiming His kingdom on earth.
My Master Jesus, continue to strengthen my faith in You. Many of Your people are in diseases, troubles, conflicts, and with many inner struggles. May You bless me and empower me with Your Presence and compassion to continue Your healing and transformative works in people's lives that people give the glory back to You.
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