How can we discern false accusations against Jesus like in Luke 11:15? Setting the Scene Luke 11:15: “But some of them said, ‘It is by Beelzebul, the prince of the demons, that He drives out demons.’ ” Why False Accusations Arise - Jealousy over Jesus’ authority and following (Matthew 27:18) - Hardened hearts refusing obvious evidence (Mark 3:5) - Spiritual blindness produced by the “god of this age” (2 Corinthians 4:4) - Fear of losing influence or control (John 11:48) Typical Marks of a False Charge - Mislabels good works as evil (Isaiah 5:20) - Ignores undeniable fruit of righteousness (Matthew 12:33) - Attributes divine power to demonic sources (Luke 11:15; Mark 3:22) - Offers no scriptural foundation, only speculation or slander (Psalm 109:2–3) Biblical Grid for Discernment 1. Test the confession - 1 John 4:1–3: does the speaker confess “Jesus Christ has come in the flesh” and honor His deity? 2. Examine the fruit - Matthew 7:16–18: good trees bear good fruit; Jesus’ works rescued, healed, delivered. 3. Compare with Scripture - Acts 17:11: “examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so.” 4. Observe consistency with God’s character - James 1:17: God’s gifts are good; demonic power destroys, Christ restores. 5. Consider fulfilled prophecy and miracles - John 10:25: “The works I do in My Father’s name testify about Me.” 6. Watch for ulterior motives - Luke 20:20: spies feigned sincerity to trap Him. How Jesus Handled the Slander (Luke 11:17–23) - Exposed the logical flaw: a kingdom divided cannot stand. - Pointed to divine power: “the finger of God” casts out demons. - Clarified the issue of allegiance: neutrality toward Him is impossible (v. 23). - Warned of spiritual danger: rejection invites worse bondage (vv. 24–26). Practical Steps for Us Today - Soak in Scripture daily; truth sharpens discernment (Hebrews 5:14). - Pray for wisdom and the Spirit’s illumination (John 16:13). - Evaluate every claim about Jesus by the above grid. - Seek counsel from mature believers when unsure (Proverbs 11:14). - Guard your heart against cynicism; stay teachable (Hebrews 3:12–13). - Speak the truth about Christ patiently and boldly when He’s maligned (1 Peter 3:15). Encouragement to Stand Firm 2 Cor 10:5: “We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” |
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