Luke 11: 14-28  Jesus delivers a man from a dumb demon.  The man begins to speak and those who witness this miracle marvel at it.  Except for the religious rulers, who can't accept that Jesus is God's Son.. or even God's prophet.  No, they decide to give Satan the credit for this miracle!  How horrid! This is truly blasphemy !  Jesus addresses this sinful attitude and teaches them the truth.

First of all, Jesus tells them... " Any kingdom divided against itself is laid waste; and a house divided against itself falls."  Civil war does not bring unity.. it brings disaster. This is a principal that we see even today as countries around the world fall apart fighting against their own fellow countrymen.   We see it in our own country, not just in the past, but currently with a growing divide between the right and the left, the liberals and the conservatives.  It will produce failure and loss... not unity and prosperity.

Satan's kingdom is no different.  If he fights against himself he will implode !  It is not to his benefit to cast out demons.  Only God can and will defeat Satan and his minions.  Jesus says, " But if I cast out demons by the finger of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you."  Here is all the proof they ever needed to understand that Jesus is God's Son,  for He has ushered in the Kingdom of God.

Jesus has more to teach about this subject.  Using the  illustration of a strong man who guards his home, Jesus shows us that each person is subject to attack.  One spirit or another will rule us - an evil spirit.. or a Holy one.  We do have a choice in the matter.  If we chose to be indwelled by the Holy Spirit, He will overpower and cast out any evil ones.  But, if we do not allow the Holy Spirit to rule.. to guard.. and to fill us.. then the evil will multiply.  We must be aware!

Jesus says , " ... blessed are those who hear the word of God and observe it."  It's a repeat of His message  - " He who has ears to hear, let him hear."  We must choose to read, study, meditate on, and do what God has spoken!   And here, He is speaking about what kingdom we want to serve and belong to.. satan's kingdom.. or God's Kingdom.   There are only two choices.  "He who is not with Me is against Me; and he who does not gather with Me, scatters."  Jesus says. ( v23)

" Who is on the Lord's side?

Who will serve the King?

Who will be His helpers, 

other lives to bring?

Who will leave the world's side?

Who will face the foe?

Who is on the Lord's side?

Who for Him will go?

By the call of mercy, 

by the grace divine,

We are on the Lord's side; 

Savior we are Thine.

Fierce may be the conflict, 

strong may be the foe, 

But the King's own army

None can overthrow.

Round His standard ranging

Victory is secure;

For His truth unchanging

Makes the triumph sure.

Joyfully enlisting

By Thy grace divine,

We are on the Lord's side;

Savior, we are Thine.

Amen"

Lord Jesus, You have purchased us by Your own blood and have set us free from the dominion of darkness.. and we praise You and give You thanks wholeheartedly.  Oh, may we be careful to listen and guard and do the Word of God.. facing the foe in Your Name.  We are on Your side and will gather with You.  Lead us in the paths of righteousness for Your Name's sake.  We ask this according to Your Word and in Your Name. Amen.