Matthew 12: 22-37  Jesus delivered a demon-possessed man "who was blind and dumb".  This man was unable to see Jesus and unable to ask for help. But.. after he met Jesus he was able to speak and see.  The pain and suffering caused by demonic forces seemed so rampant in the days of Jesus on earth.. and we know that it is still true in our day.. although we don't recognize it as readily as we probably should.  The multitudes were amazed at what Jesus did.. but the Pharisees called it the work of "Beelzebul". 

Jesus responds to the Pharisees with three points:

First, their accusations are illogical.  Using reasoning, Jesus explains that Satan could not cast out himself.  His kingdom would not stand with such actions.  Also, others who cast out demons would be in the same category that they were trying to place Jesus.. what would they say about that? 

Secondly and more importantly.. Jesus says, " But if I cast out demons by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you."   The point that they were missing is the Presence of the Holy Spirit.. who bound "the strong man.. "   Jesus warns the Pharisees that they were entering into dangerous thinking.. they were guilty of "blasphemy against the Spirit".. a sin that would not be pardoned.  To be against Jesus was one thing.. but to "speak against the Holy Spirit"  was something much more serious.. "is shall not be forgiven him, either in this age, or in the age to come." 

The third truth that Jesus tells the Pharisees is that their words were revealing their hearts.. they spoke evil.. therefore their hearts must be evil.  A good man would produce good words.. just like a good tree produces good fruit. But, an evil man.. with an evil heart could only "bring forth what is evil".. like a bad tree would produce bad fruit.  

"And I say to you, that every careless word that men shall speak, they shall render account for it in the day of judgement. For by your words you shall be justified and by your words you shall be condemned." 

Father, help us to guard our hearts and to guard our words. Fill us with Your Spirit.. of truth and wisdom, understanding and strength.. help us to exalt the Name of Jesus with our hearts and with our mouths.. to be "with" Jesus and never.. ever.. against Him.  We call upon this wonderful Name.. the Name of Jesus.. King of kings and Lord of lords.. asking that His life will be made manifest in us and Your Name be exalted in all the earth. amen.