MATTHEW 12:22-23

REVELATION 22:16

EVERY DIVINE ACT CONFRONTS US WITH A DECISION – WILL WE BELIEVE OR RESIST?

MATTHEW 12:24

RELIGIOUS BLINDNESS IS WORSE THAN PHYSICAL BLINDNESS.

MATTHEW 12:25

DIVISION DESTROYS EFFECTIVENESS

AMP – JAMES 3:16-17 16 For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder [unrest, rebellion] and every evil thing and morally degrading practice. 17 But the wisdom from above is first pure [morally and spiritually undefiled], then peace-loving [courteous, considerate], gentle, reasonable [and willing to listen], full of compassion and good fruits. It is unwavering, without [self-righteous] hypocrisy [and self-serving guile]. 18 And the seed whose fruit is righteousness (spiritual maturity) is sown in peace by those who make peace [by actively encouraging goodwill between individuals].

THE KINGDOM OF DARKNESS THRIVES WHERE GOD’S PEOPLE ARE DIVIDED.

MATTHEW 12:26-27

MATTHEW 12:28-29

The strong man: Represents Satan, who is seen as the "strong man" in control of those he has influenced.

The house: Represents the spiritual stronghold Satan has over people's lives, or his kingdom.

Plundering the house: Refers to Jesus rescuing people from Satan's control and bondage through his power and authority. The "possessions" are the souls of the people held captive by demonic influence.

Binding the strong man: Means that Jesus must first overcome and overpower Satan (the "strong man") to rescue those who are under his control.

(PLUNDER) – to take the possessions by force

MATTHEW 12:30

MATTHEW 12:31-32

MARK 3:28-30 28 Truly I tell you, people can be forgiven all their sins and every slander they utter, 29 but whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will never be forgiven; they are guilty of an eternal sin.” 30 He said this because they were saying, “He has an impure spirit.”