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Matthew 12:28
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Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God--In Luke (Luk 11:20) it is, "with (or 'by') the finger of God." This latter expression is just a figurative way of representing the power of God, while the former tells us the living Personal Agent was made use of by the Lord Jesus in every exercise of that power. then--"no doubt" (Luk 11:20). the kingdom of God is come unto you--rather "upon you," as the same expression is rendered in Luke (Luk 11:20): --that is, "If this expulsion of Satan is, and can be, by no other than the Spirit of God, then is his Destroyer already in the midst of you, and that kingdom which is destined to supplant his is already rising on its ruins."
John Gill Bible Commentary
Either make the tree good, and his fruit good,.... That is, either assert them both good, or else make the tree corrupt, and his fruit corrupt: say they are both evil, for the contrary cannot be affirmed with any consistency and propriety: the matter is easy to be determined, for the tree is known by his fruit; fruit will discover what a tree is, and accordingly judgment may be made. No man will say a tree is good, and its fruit corrupt; or say, that a tree is corrupt, and its fruit good: these are glaring contradictions, and can never be reconciled. The case Christ here puts, is a very easy and familiar one, and is obvious to common sense: the application of it may be made, either to the foregoing instance of Christ's casting out devils, which the Jews ascribed to the help of Satan; and then the sense is, either say I am a good man, and do good works, or that I am an evil man, and do evil works: to say that I do good works, as the casting out of devils must be allowed to be, and yet am an evil man, and do this under satanical influence, is as great an inconsistency, as to say that a corrupt tree brings forth good fruit; either therefore condemn these miracles as evil actions, done by confederacy with Satan; or if you will allow them to be good ones, as you do, ascribe them to the Spirit of God; for these things may as easily be determined, as the cause by its effect, or as a tree is known by its fruit: or else this may be applied unto the Pharisees, who, though wicked men, pretended to do good works; and though they set up for men of religion and holiness, yet did evil things, as their words and actions testified; particularly the blasphemy just now uttered by them, charging the miracles of Christ as done by the assistance of the devil, which discovered the malignity and rottenness of their hearts: and the meaning of Christ is, that they would either both say, and do, that which is right and good; or relinquish their pretensions to the character of good and religious men: nothing can be concluded from hence in favour of free will, or a power in the creature to make himself good; for the word "make", here signifies to "say, affirm, assert", and the like; see Joh 5:18. Though it may be fairly inferred from hence, that a man must first be a good man, ever he can perform good works, truly and properly so called; and that these are fruits and evidences of the inward real goodness of a man; which must be understood not of a few single actions, but of the common, constant series and course of life.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
12:28 The Pharisees were being confronted with and were rejecting the Kingdom of God itself (see Luke 17:20-21; 1 Jn 3:8). Jesus’ miracles brought the power of the Kingdom into the present reality; its ultimate consummation awaits Christ’s second coming.
Matthew 12:28
A House Divided
27And if I drive out demons by Beelzebul, by whom do your sons drive them out? So then, they will be your judges.28But if I drive out demons by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Kingdom of God - Part 1
By B.H. Clendennen4.8K09:45MAT 5:14MAT 6:10MAT 12:28JHN 3:3JHN 18:361CO 4:202CO 5:17EPH 2:8COL 1:13This sermon emphasizes the importance of being born again to truly experience the kingdom of God. It highlights the need for a genuine transformation where Christ is birthed in individuals, leading to a desire to be in God's presence and a deep understanding of the fall and redemption. The message stresses that Christianity is not about religious rituals but about having a personal relationship with Christ and living in His kingdom of light and power.
Intimacy With God
By Dennis Kinlaw1.7K33:42Intimacy With GodEXO 31:18MAT 12:28LUK 19:1JHN 4:16HEB 8:10HEB 9:1REV 21:8In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of living a sanctified life according to God's commandments. He highlights nine areas of sanctity that believers should strive for. These include avoiding taking the Lord's name in vain, honoring the sanctity of time, maintaining a sanctified home, valuing the sanctity of life, upholding the sanctity of sex, having a proper relationship with possessions, and being truthful even when it's not convenient. The preacher emphasizes the need to trust in God's provision and take risks in obedience to Him. He also shares a story of a man who quit selling tobacco despite facing financial difficulties, and how God blessed him for his obedience. The sermon concludes with a reminder to be content and avoid coveting, as expressed in Philippians.
The Missing Ingredient in Modern Evangelism
By Al Whittinghill56053:23EvangelismMAT 12:28JHN 3:16In this sermon, the speaker addresses the importance of prayer in evangelism. He emphasizes that simply providing physical help and comfort to others is not enough to free them from spiritual bondage. The speaker references Ephesians 6:10, which encourages believers to put on the whole armor of God to stand against the tactics of the devil. He highlights the need for prayer as the missing link in evangelism, stating that it is through prayer that miracles happen and people are emancipated and enlightened by the Word of God. The speaker also shares the example of the Iranian hostage crisis, where thousands of churches prayed for the release of the hostages, which eventually led to their freedom after 444 days.
Don't Arm the Enemy
By Shane Idleman50354:19MAT 12:28MRK 5:1The sermon titled 'Don't Arm the Enemy' emphasizes the dangers of arming the demonic realm by giving them power through our actions like addiction, indulgence in sensuality, and opening doors to darkness. It highlights the need to confess, seek accountability, and fan the flames of passion for God. The message warns against falling into discouragement, engaging in occult practices, and allowing harmful influences into our minds and bodies, urging listeners to confront the enemy and choose the path of light and repentance.
Spiritual Gifts Training (Part 4)
By Jackie Pullinger4450:45Spiritual GiftsHealing and ForgivenessKingdom Of GodDAN 2:44MAL 4:1MAT 12:28MRK 1:15LUK 10:9JHN 3:81CO 4:20GAL 1:4EPH 1:212TH 1:7Jackie Pullinger emphasizes the transformative power of the Kingdom of God, asserting that it is not merely about words but about divine power manifesting in healing and restoration. She reflects on the historical longing of Israel for their kingdom and how Jesus proclaimed the nearness of the Kingdom, urging believers to actively participate in its realization through acts of healing and forgiveness. Pullinger encourages the congregation to check the teachings against Scripture and to engage in the mission of spreading the Kingdom, highlighting the importance of forgiveness as a prerequisite for healing and spiritual freedom.
Jesus' Power Over Nature, Demons, and Death (Mk. 3-5)
By Mike Bickle271:32:29Jesus' AuthorityFaith in AdversityISA 53:5MAT 9:26MAT 12:28MRK 3:20MRK 4:39MRK 5:1MRK 5:35LUK 8:54JHN 14:12ROM 8:31Mike Bickle emphasizes Jesus' authority over nature, demons, and death, highlighting the public rejection He faced from religious leaders and even His own family. Despite this rejection, Jesus performs a series of miracles that reveal His true identity and power, demonstrating that He is more than a prophet and operates in the fullness of the Holy Spirit. Bickle draws parallels between Jesus' experiences and the challenges the end-time church will face, encouraging believers to trust in Jesus' promises and power amidst opposition. The sermon culminates in a call for healing and deliverance, affirming that Jesus is the source of hope and restoration.
The Gospel of the Kingdom (Mt. 24:14)
By Mike Bickle2046:16Identity in ChristGospel of the KingdomISA 4:2MAT 4:23MAT 12:28MAT 24:14LUK 17:21ACT 17:7ROM 6:14ROM 14:17HEB 13:17REV 22:17Mike Bickle emphasizes the urgency of proclaiming the Gospel of the Kingdom amidst escalating hostility and chaos in society, as described in Matthew 24. He highlights that the Gospel is not merely about personal salvation but encompasses a comprehensive understanding of God's Kingdom, which includes community, societal impact, and the power of the Holy Spirit. Bickle calls for believers to recognize their identity as the Bride of Christ, actively participating in the proclamation and demonstration of the Kingdom in every nation. He stresses the importance of unity and the role of the church in showcasing God's leadership during these tumultuous times. Ultimately, he encourages the church to prepare for the return of the King by embodying all facets of the Gospel of the Kingdom.
Concerning the Spirit
By G. Campbell Morgan0Empowerment for MinistryThe Holy SpiritMAT 10:20MAT 12:28MAT 28:19MRK 3:29LUK 11:13JHN 3:5JHN 4:13JHN 14:16JHN 16:7ACT 1:8G. Campbell Morgan emphasizes the significance of the Holy Spirit in the life of believers, highlighting that it is not the individual who speaks, but the Spirit of God that empowers them. He discusses the relationship between the Spirit and the Kingdom of God, the necessity of being born of the Spirit for salvation, and the Spirit's role in guiding, teaching, and comforting believers. Morgan also warns against blaspheming the Holy Spirit, which is an unforgivable sin, and stresses the importance of the Spirit in the ministry of Jesus and the work of His disciples. Ultimately, he presents the Holy Spirit as a constant presence that enables believers to fulfill their calling and experience the fullness of life in Christ.
The Fundamental Conception
By G. Campbell Morgan0The Kingdom of GodJesus' TeachingsMAT 4:17MAT 6:9MAT 6:33MAT 10:7MAT 11:3MAT 11:12MAT 12:28MRK 1:15LUK 10:9JHN 3:2G. Campbell Morgan emphasizes the centrality of the Kingdom of God in Jesus' teachings and actions, illustrating that the Kingdom was fundamental to His ministry. He highlights that Jesus preached repentance and the nearness of the Kingdom, urging His followers to seek it first. Morgan explores the significance of the Kingdom as both a rule and a realm, asserting that it encompasses God's authority and the results of His reign. He also addresses the misconceptions surrounding the Kingdom and the Church, affirming that both concepts are unified in Christ's mission. Ultimately, the sermon calls believers to recognize the Kingdom's importance and their role in realizing it on earth.
Different Phases of the One Fact
By G. Campbell Morgan0The Kingdom of GodSpiritual TransformationMAT 4:17MAT 5:3MAT 5:10MAT 6:10MAT 6:33MAT 10:7MAT 12:28LUK 10:9JHN 3:3JHN 18:36G. Campbell Morgan explores the multifaceted nature of the Kingdom of God, emphasizing that it requires a transformative entrance through spiritual rebirth, as highlighted in Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus. He articulates that the Kingdom is both a present reality and a future hope, where believers are called to live out its principles and responsibilities. Morgan underscores the necessity of personal transformation, the communal responsibility of believers, and the ultimate establishment of God's Kingdom through divine processes culminating in a crisis. He encourages the congregation to reflect on their personal relationship with the Kingdom and their role in its manifestation in the world.
The Spirit of Life
By A.B. Simpson0Life in ChristThe Holy SpiritPSA 104:29ISA 40:31MAT 12:28JHN 14:6ACT 1:8ROM 8:11ROM 8:231CO 6:192CO 4:11PHP 4:13A.B. Simpson explores the profound question of life through Romans 8, emphasizing that true life is found in God, who is the source of all vitality. He explains how the Holy Spirit imparts life to believers, quickening their mortal bodies and enabling them to experience divine strength and healing. Simpson illustrates this through biblical examples, such as the creation, the life of Samson, and the ministry of Christ, asserting that the Holy Spirit's work is essential for both spiritual and physical vitality. He encourages believers to recognize the Holy Spirit's indwelling presence and to rely on Him for strength and healing in their lives. Ultimately, Simpson assures that the same Spirit that raised Christ will also quicken our bodies, offering a foretaste of the future resurrection.
The Powers of the Age to Come
By Watchman Nee0Spiritual WarfareKingdom Of GodJER 31:34MAT 12:28LUK 18:30ROM 6:6ROM 8:231CO 15:14HEB 4:9HEB 6:51PE 1:5REV 11:15Watchman Nee explores the concept of 'tasting the powers of the age to come' as mentioned in Hebrews 6:5, emphasizing that while Christians experience a foretaste of God's future kingdom, the fullness of these powers is yet to come. He highlights the significance of Christ's victory over Satan and the authority given to believers to reclaim dominion over the earth, which was originally intended by God. Nee asserts that the church's responsibility extends beyond salvation to actively engaging in spiritual warfare against the enemy, reclaiming territory for God's kingdom. He encourages believers to live in complete allegiance to God, as this is essential for overcoming spiritual opposition and experiencing the powers of the age to come. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper commitment to God's purpose and the realization of His dominion through the church.
The Holy Spirit in the Synoptic Gospels
By Arno Clemens Gaebelein0MAT 1:18MAT 3:11MAT 3:16MAT 4:1MAT 12:18MAT 12:28MAT 12:31LUK 1:35LUK 11:13Arno Clemens Gaebelein preaches on the significance of the Holy Spirit in the Synoptic Gospels, emphasizing the role of the Spirit in the birth, ministry, and baptism of Jesus Christ. The passages highlight the Holy Spirit's involvement in the incarnation of Jesus, the anointing of Jesus for His ministry, and the power of the Spirit in casting out demons. Gaebelein also addresses the blasphemy against the Holy Spirit and the promise of the Father, the gift of the Holy Spirit, to believers.
A Powerful Church -- (Continued)
By Seth Rees02CH 20:15PSA 37:5PRO 3:5ZEC 4:6MAT 12:28LUK 6:45GAL 5:22HEB 4:9Seth Rees preaches about the true nature of spiritual power, emphasizing that it is not for worldly achievements but to destroy the works of the devil and save humanity from sin. He highlights that the works of the devil are located in the human heart, and the power of the Holy Ghost cleanses and transforms individuals from within. Rees explains that Pentecostal power eradicates pride, jealousy, impurity, and worldly ambitions, leading to genuine joy in the success of others and effortless work in serving God. He illustrates the concept of surrendering to God by comparing it to a ship relying on God's guidance rather than human efforts, emphasizing the need to cease from personal struggles and let God take full control.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God--In Luke (Luk 11:20) it is, "with (or 'by') the finger of God." This latter expression is just a figurative way of representing the power of God, while the former tells us the living Personal Agent was made use of by the Lord Jesus in every exercise of that power. then--"no doubt" (Luk 11:20). the kingdom of God is come unto you--rather "upon you," as the same expression is rendered in Luke (Luk 11:20): --that is, "If this expulsion of Satan is, and can be, by no other than the Spirit of God, then is his Destroyer already in the midst of you, and that kingdom which is destined to supplant his is already rising on its ruins."
John Gill Bible Commentary
Either make the tree good, and his fruit good,.... That is, either assert them both good, or else make the tree corrupt, and his fruit corrupt: say they are both evil, for the contrary cannot be affirmed with any consistency and propriety: the matter is easy to be determined, for the tree is known by his fruit; fruit will discover what a tree is, and accordingly judgment may be made. No man will say a tree is good, and its fruit corrupt; or say, that a tree is corrupt, and its fruit good: these are glaring contradictions, and can never be reconciled. The case Christ here puts, is a very easy and familiar one, and is obvious to common sense: the application of it may be made, either to the foregoing instance of Christ's casting out devils, which the Jews ascribed to the help of Satan; and then the sense is, either say I am a good man, and do good works, or that I am an evil man, and do evil works: to say that I do good works, as the casting out of devils must be allowed to be, and yet am an evil man, and do this under satanical influence, is as great an inconsistency, as to say that a corrupt tree brings forth good fruit; either therefore condemn these miracles as evil actions, done by confederacy with Satan; or if you will allow them to be good ones, as you do, ascribe them to the Spirit of God; for these things may as easily be determined, as the cause by its effect, or as a tree is known by its fruit: or else this may be applied unto the Pharisees, who, though wicked men, pretended to do good works; and though they set up for men of religion and holiness, yet did evil things, as their words and actions testified; particularly the blasphemy just now uttered by them, charging the miracles of Christ as done by the assistance of the devil, which discovered the malignity and rottenness of their hearts: and the meaning of Christ is, that they would either both say, and do, that which is right and good; or relinquish their pretensions to the character of good and religious men: nothing can be concluded from hence in favour of free will, or a power in the creature to make himself good; for the word "make", here signifies to "say, affirm, assert", and the like; see Joh 5:18. Though it may be fairly inferred from hence, that a man must first be a good man, ever he can perform good works, truly and properly so called; and that these are fruits and evidences of the inward real goodness of a man; which must be understood not of a few single actions, but of the common, constant series and course of life.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
12:28 The Pharisees were being confronted with and were rejecting the Kingdom of God itself (see Luke 17:20-21; 1 Jn 3:8). Jesus’ miracles brought the power of the Kingdom into the present reality; its ultimate consummation awaits Christ’s second coming.