Jesus is Lord
Matthew 12:22-30; Mark 3:22-27
It is interesting and even ironic that the Pharisees accused the Lord of casting out devils by the power of Beelzebub (Matthew 12:24), especially in light of the fact that they were actually guilty of blasphemy themselves. Even more, they never seemed to realize that Jesus actually knew what their thoughts were when they would confront or tempt Him.
Also, seeing a miracle and knowing that only the power of God was capable of such, they still did not accept the fact that He was God. However, this did not prevent Him from performing miracles. This is a powerful lesson for Christians today not to allow our critics to deter us from doing what is right and standing for truth.
The Pharisees were certainly like many who are so materialistic minded that they are blind to the truth when it is so obvious. Many times the question has been asked, “How can anyone not understand that baptism is essential for salvation when the Bible states it so plainly?” (cf. Mark 16:16). The answer can certainly be seen in the example of the Jews’ rejection of Jesus as they witnessed the power of God in the miracles He performed and did not believe in Him as their Messiah. To believe in Jesus as Savior, Jesus must be Lord of our lives “Why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say” (Luke 6:46).
Parable of the Unclean Spirit
Matthew 12:43-45; Luke 11:24-26
The lesson that Jesus taught concerning the return of the evil spirit gives an interesting insight especially for those who might think that once you become a Christian that’s all you have to do. Yet still there is a lesson for a child of God who might have become complacent and apathetic.
If a Christian does not “keep house” it allows for many other things to fill up his house. The inspired writer, John, warns about being in the world but not of the world (1 John 2:15-17). Satan makes it so easy for a child of God to fill his life with so many “things” that there is no room left for God.
God dwells within the Christian’s heart. It must be kept clean and filled with God’s word. The evil spirit would not have been able to find room to dwell if the heart is full of God’s word. The Psalmist states, “The law of God is in his heart: none of his steps shall slide” (Psalm 37:31). If it is left empty even though it’s clean, there is room for other things. If the room is available and Satan is allowed to re-enter, the latter state is worse than the first (Matt. 12:45; cf. 1 Peter 2:20-22).
Jesus’ Family
Matthew 12:46-50; Mark 3:31-35
Another wonderful insight is Matthew and Mark’s inspired record concerning Jesus’ lesson about His “true kindred.” It was not the case that Jesus was being rude to His family, yet rather, to teach a valuable spiritual lesson (as Jesus did so often). Further, this falls within the context where Jesus has not only been performing miracles and teaching valuable lessons, but also having to deal with the scribes and Pharisees.
It was during this occasion that Jesus had gone into the synagogue to teach. His family (mother and brothers) were outside desiring to speak with Him. He then stated, “Who is my mother and who are my brothers?” He then used the situation to explain that His “mother and brothers” was whosoever does the will of His Father in Heaven (Matthew 12:50).
The lesson is that followers of Christ will submit themselves to God’s will (cf. Matthew 7:21). Jesus would also teach that one must deny himself and put himself to death in order to follow Him (Lk. 9:23). Unless we are willing to submit ourselves to the will of God, we cannot be a part of the family of Christ. This simply means that we are not only a part of His family, but also, His friend (John 15:14). There is a wonderful song entitled “God’s Family” that we sing so often that promotes this glorious truth.