Divided House

 

Gospel 

Luke 11:15-26

15 When Jesus had driven out a demon, some of the crowd said: “By the power of Beelzebul, the prince of demons, he drives out demons.” 16 Others, to test him, asked him for a sign from heaven. 17 But he knew their thoughts and said to them, “Every kingdom divided against itself will be laid waste and house will fall against house. 18 And if Satan is divided against himself, how will his kingdom stand? For you say that it is by Beelzebul that I drive out demons. 19 If I, then, drive out demons by Beelzebul, by whom do your own people drive them out? Therefore they will be your judges. 20 But if it is by the finger of God that I drive out demons, then the Kingdom of God has come upon you. 21 When a strong man fully armed guards his palace, his possessions are safe. 22 But when one stronger than he attacks and overcomes him, he takes away the armor on which he relied and distributes the spoils. 23 Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters. 24 “When an unclean spirit goes out of someone, it roams through arid regions searching for rest but, finding none, it says, ‘I shall return to my home from which I came.’ 25 But upon returning, it finds it swept clean and put in order. 26 Then it goes and brings back seven other spirits more wicked than itself who move in and dwell there, and the last condition of that person is worse than the first.”

Historical Background

This passage unfolds during Jesus’ public ministry, likely in Judea or Galilee, where He was actively teaching, healing, and casting out demons. The setting is charged with religious and political tension.

Pharisees and scribes held sway over religious life, emphasizing ritual purity and oral law. Any claim to divine authority—especially one that bypassed their traditions—was seen as a threat. Public challenges to authority were high-stakes. The Pharisees’ accusation was a strategic move to preserve their honor and discredit Jesus before the crowds.

The name “Beelzebul” (or Beelzebub) traces back to Ba‘al-Zebub, a Philistine deity (2 Kings 1:2). By Jesus’ time, it had become a Jewish epithet for Satan. Accusing Jesus of casting out demons by Beelzebul was a serious charge—tantamount to calling Him a sorcerer aligned with demonic powers.

Jewish exorcists often used elaborate incantations and rituals (cf. Acts 19:13). Jesus’ method—casting out demons by command alone—was radically different and deeply unsettling to the religious elite.

Theological Context

Luke 11:15–26 is not just a defense—it’s a declaration of divine authority and a call to spiritual vigilance.

Jesus refutes the accusation with logic: “A kingdom divided against itself cannot stand” (v.17). If He were empowered by Satan, Satan would be sabotaging his own kingdom.

He then asserts: “If I drive out demons by the finger of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you” (v.20). This echoes Exodus 8:19, where Pharaoh’s magicians acknowledge God’s power. Jesus is claiming divine agency—He is the embodiment of God’s reign.

“Whoever is not with me is against me” (v.23) is a stark reminder: neutrality in spiritual matters is not an option. Jesus demands a decisive response.

The metaphor of the strong man (vv.21–22) illustrates Jesus’ conquest over Satan. He is the “stronger one” who invades and liberates what Satan once held captive.

Verses 24–26 describe a person freed from an unclean spirit but left spiritually empty. Without filling that void with God’s presence, the person becomes vulnerable to even worse demonic influence. This is a caution against mere moral reform or ritual purity without true transformation. It’s not enough to be “clean”—one must be indwelt by the Spirit of Christ.

As a whole, Luke 11:15–26 is a theological showdown. Jesus confronts hardened unbelief, exposes flawed logic, and reveals the inbreaking of God’s kingdom. Historically, it reflects the volatile mix of messianic expectation, religious rivalry, and Roman oversight. Theologically, it calls for wholehearted allegiance, spiritual discernment, and a life filled with the presence of God—not just emptied of evil.

Learning Lessons:

“United we stand, divided we fall” is a powerful and timeless phrase that emphasizes the importance of unity and collaboration. It reminds us that when we come together and support one another, we can achieve great things and overcome any obstacles. However, when we are divided, we become vulnerable and less effective.

This concept is beautifully reflected in various aspects of life, including family, community, and even faith. In the Bible, there are numerous passages that highlight the strength found in unity. For example, Ecclesiastes 4:12 (NIV) states: “Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” This verse underscores the idea that together, we are stronger and more resilient.

Jesus’ ability to perceive thoughts highlights the importance of spiritual discernment. Seeking wisdom and understanding through prayer and reflection can help us navigate challenges and conflicts. Let us be mindful of our own thoughts and intentions, as they can influence our actions and relationships.

In the tapestry of life, each thread we weave,

A bond of love, in which we all believe.

Together we stand, through thick and thin,

In unity, our strength begins.

When hearts align, and hands entwine,

Mountains move, and stars align.

No storm too fierce, no night too long,

In unity, we find our song.

Each voice a note, in harmony’s choir,

Lifting spirits, setting hearts afire.

With every step, and every stride,

In unity, we find our guide.

Through trials faced, and battles fought,

In unity, our strength is sought.

For when we stand as one, we see,

The power of our unity.

So let us join, both heart and hand,

Together strong, together stand.

For in this bond, so pure and true,

In unity, our strength renews.

Dear Lord Jesus,

We come before You with humble hearts, seeking Your guidance and grace. In a world often divided, we ask for Your divine presence to unite us in love and purpose.

Lord, You taught us that where two or three are gathered in Your name, there You are in the midst of them. We pray for unity among us, that we may stand together as one body, reflecting Your love and compassion to the world.

Help us to see beyond our differences and to embrace each other with open hearts. May we find strength in our unity, knowing that together, we can overcome any challenge and face any storm.

Grant us the wisdom to work together in harmony, the courage to support one another, and the patience to understand each other’s needs. Let our unity be a testament to Your glory and a beacon of hope for those around us.

Lord, we ask that You bind us together with cords of love that cannot be broken. Fill our hearts with Your peace and our minds with Your wisdom, so that we may walk in Your ways and fulfill Your will.

In Your holy name, we pray.

Amen.

Pericope:

V: The Journey to Jerusalem: Luke's Travel Narrative

JESUS AND BEELZEBUL / THE RETURN OF THE UNCLEAN SPIRIT

Luke 11:14-23 / 24-26

Gospel Acclamation

The prince of this world will now be cast out, and when I am lifted up from the earth I will draw all to myself, says the Lord.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Blessed Trinity

 

"Everything that 

the Father has is mine; 

for this reason I told you that 

he will take from what is mine 

and declare it to you.” 

(John 16:15)

Jesus introduces the role of the Holy Spirit, who He refers to as the "Spirit of truth". The Spirit will guide the disciples into all truth, not speaking on His own, but declaring what He hears. The Spirit will glorify Jesus by taking what is His and declaring it to the disciples. Jesus affirms that all that the Father has is His, hence the Spirit will take what is Jesus’ and declare it to the disciples.

This passage is often read on Trinity Sunday as it provides a clear explanation of the relationship between the Father, the Son (Jesus), and the Holy Spirit. It underscores the unity of the Trinity and the distinct role of each Person.

In the grand tapestry of life, each thread unique,

Distinct roles we play, a common goal we seek.

To glorify Jesus in word and deed,

In every action, planting a seed.

Spiritual growth, a journey, not a sprint,

Our understanding deepens, leaving its imprint.

A process of time, of lessons learned,

In the furnace of life, wisdom earned.

The Holy Spirit, our guide on this quest,

Illuminating our path, putting us to the test.

In the labyrinth of life, a beacon so bright,

Guiding us gently through the night.

By the Holy Spirit, our maturity grows,

Like a river that steadily flows.

Revealing divine truth, a treasure untold,

In our hearts, a story of grace unfolds.

Dear Lord Jesus,

We come before you, acknowledging that each of us has a distinct role to play, yet we are united in our aim to glorify you through our actions and words. Help us to remember that spiritual growth is a process, and that our understanding of spiritual matters deepens over time.

We thank You for the gift of the Holy Spirit, who illuminates our understanding and guides us in our spiritual journey. May we be open to the Spirit's guidance, and may our spiritual maturity continue to grow under His influence. Reveal to us the divine truth, Lord, and help us to apply this truth in our daily lives. May we always strive to glorify you in all that we do, and may our lives be a testament to Your love and grace. In Your holy name, we pray. 

Amen.

Pericope

III: The Book of Glory

JESUS DEPARTURE; COMING OF THE ADVOCATE

John 16:4-33

Gospel Acclamation

I will ask the Father and he will give you another Advocate to be with you always.

Gospel | John 16:12-15

12 Jesus said to his disciples: “I have much more to tell you, but you cannot bear it now. 13 But when he comes, the Spirit of truth, he will guide you to all truth. He will not speak on his own, but he will speak what he hears, and will declare to you the things that are coming. 14 He will glorify me, because he will take from what is mine and declare it to you. 15 Everything that the Father has is mine; for this reason I told you that he will take from what is mine and declare it to you.”

Background

The background of John 16:12-15 is set in the context of Jesus’ teachings to His disciples. Here’s a brief summary:

John 16:12-15: These verses are part of Jesus’ farewell discourse to His disciples during the Last Supper1. Jesus is preparing His disciples for His departure and the coming of the Holy Spirit.

John 16:12: Jesus acknowledges that He has many more things to teach His disciples, but they are not yet ready to bear them. This suggests that the disciples’ understanding and spiritual maturity will continue to grow, especially after the coming of the Holy Spirit.

Learning Lessons

Spiritual growth is a process, and our understanding of spiritual matters deepens over time. The role of the Holy Spirit is to illuminate our understanding and guide us in our spiritual journey. By the Holy Spirit, our spiritual maturity will continue to grow, revealing to us the divine truth.

Each person has a distinct role but have a one goal to aim and that is to glorify Jesus through actions and words.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Published:

May 28, 2025, 7:59 AM

Bound as One

 

And I have given them the glory you gave me, so that they may be one, as we are one, I in them and you in me, that they may be brought to perfection as one, that the world may know that you sent me, and that you loved them even as you loved me. 

(John 22:23)

In quiet prayer, He lifts His eyes, 

A plea for love that never dies. 

Not just for those within His sight, 

But all who walk in faith and light.

A bond so strong, a love so true, 

That hearts may shine in golden hue. 

As Father, Son are joined as one,

 So we, through grace, are never done.

May love divine in us reside, 

With mercy flowing, side by side. 

A witness bright for all to see, 

That Christ in us will ever be.

His glory given, a gift so bright, 

To walk in truth, to share His light. 

May we in unity remain, 

One voice, one heart, in Jesus' name.

Lord Jesus, 

You prayed for us long ago, that we may be one, as you and the Father are one. Your love binds us, stronger than any force, calling us to live in harmony and truth.

Fill our hearts with Your divine love, that we may reflect your glory in all we do. Help us to forgive, to heal, to embrace, to be a witness of your grace to the world. May our unity shine as a light of hope, drawing others into your presence and peace. Let your love dwell in us richly, so that we may always walk in Your truth.

In your holy name, we pray, 

Amen.

Pericope

III: The Book of Glory

THE PRAYER OF JESUS

John 17:1-26

Gospel Acclamation

May they all be one as you, Father, are in me and I in you, that the world may believe that you sent me, says the Lord. 

Gospel | John 17:20-26

20 Lifting up his eyes to heaven, Jesus prayed, saying: “I pray not only for these, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, 21 so that they may all be one, as you, Father, are in me and I in you, that they also may be in us, that the world may believe that you sent me. 22 And I have given them the glory you gave me, so that they may be one, as we are one, 23 I in them and you in me, that they may be brought to perfection as one, that the world may know that you sent me, and that you loved them even as you loved me. 24 Father, they are your gift to me. I wish that where I am they also may be with me, that they may see my glory that you gave me, because you loved me before the foundation of the world. 25 Righteous Father, the world also does not know you, but I know you, and they know that you sent me. 26 I made known to them your name and I will make it known, that the love with which you loved me may be in them and I in them.”

Historical Context and Background:

John 17:20-26 is part of Jesus' High Priestly Prayer, a deeply significant moment in the Gospel of John. 

This passage occurs within the Farewell Discourse, a series of teachings Jesus gives to His disciples before His crucifixion. Historically, this prayer reflects Jesus' desire for unity among His followers, emphasizing their connection to Him and the Father.

The Gospel of John is known for its unique language and theological depth, often using antilanguage, a form of communication that creates an insider reality for the Johannine community. This suggests that John’s Gospel was written for a distinct Christian group that sought to maintain solidarity while differentiating itself from other Jewish and Christian communities of the time.

Additionally, John 17 is often compared to Jesus' prayer in Gethsemane, recorded in the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke). While those accounts focus on Jesus' personal anguish, John presents a broader theological vision, highlighting glory, unity, and divine love.

Learning Lessons:

Jesus Prays for Unity – Jesus prays not only for His disciples but for all future believers, emphasizing the importance of oneness among His followers. He desires that they be united just as He and the Father are one.

Unity Reflects God's Nature – The unity Jesus speaks of is not just organizational but spiritual—a reflection of the relationship between the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This teaches us that true unity is rooted in God’s love and truth.

Love as the Foundation – Jesus highlights that the love of the Father is given to believers, showing that love is the core of Christian faith. This reminds us that our relationships should be built on grace, forgiveness, and compassion.

A Witness to the World – Jesus prays that believers' unity will be a testimony to the world, proving that He was sent by the Father. This teaches us that our actions and relationships should reflect Christ’s love, drawing others to faith.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Divided Household Falls

 

"Every kingdom 

divided against itself 

is laid waste, 

and a divided 

household falls." 

(Luke 11:17)

It is important to foster unity in our families, communities, and faith. Working together and staying united in God's mission is essential to building a stronger, more faithful community. Let us trust in God's strength and rely on His authority to overcome the challenges and temptations we face.

Skepticism and doubt can obstruct spiritual growth. We should discern wisely and believe in God's work. Let us recognize God's presence in our lives and respond with faith and gratitude.

A house once strong, with walls of stone, 

Now echoes with the seeds we've sown. 

Divided hearts, torn at their seams, 

Scatter dreams like broken beams.

The kingdom swayed by doubt and strife, 

Splinters deep, losing its life. 

A single spark, a whispered lie, 

Turns unity to a fractured sky.

But hear the call, so firm, so wise, 

To mend the cracks, to lift our eyes. 

For bonds that break can also heal, 

If hearts remember the common weal.

So let us build, and stand as one, 

Till battles cease and shadows run. 

Together strong, we'll never fall, 

A house united conquers all.

Lord Jesus, 

You are the cornerstone of our lives, the source of strength and peace. We come to You with humble hearts, seeking Your guidance and grace.

Grant us unity, Lord, in our homes, our communities, and our hearts. May we cast away division and discord and embrace Your call to love and gather in Your holy name. Strengthen us in faith, that we may stand firm against the forces of separation. When doubt creeps in, let Your light shine upon us, and remind us that with You, no kingdom will fall, no household will fail. Help us to reflect Your love, To be peacemakers and builders of harmony, and to live as witnesses of Your eternal truth.

We surrender all to Your will, Lord Jesus, For we know that only in You can we find true unity and everlasting peace. 

Amen

Pericope:

V: The Journey to Jerusalem: Luke's Travel Narrative

JESUS AND BEELZEBUL

Luke 11:14-23

Gospel Acclamation

Even now, says the Lord, return to me with your whole heart, for I am gracious and merciful.

Gospel | Luke 11:14-23

14 Jesus was driving out a demon that was mute, and when the demon had gone out, the mute man spoke and the crowds were amazed. 15 Some of them said, “By the power of Beelzebul, the prince of demons, he drives out demons.” 16 Others, to test him, asked him for a sign from heaven. 17 But he knew their thoughts and said to them, “Every kingdom divided against itself will be laid waste and house will fall against house. 18 And if Satan is divided against himself, how will his kingdom stand? For you say that it is by Beelzebul that I drive out demons. 19 If I, then, drive out demons by Beelzebul, by whom do your own people drive them out? Therefore they will be your judges. 20 But if it is by the finger of God that I drive out demons, then the Kingdom of God has come upon you. 21 When a strong man fully armed guards his palace, his possessions are safe. 22 But when one stronger than he attacks and overcomes him, he takes away the armor on which he relied and distributes the spoils. 23 Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters.”

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

House Divided

“If a house is divided 

against itself, 

that house will not 

be able to stand.” 

(Mark 3:25)

There will be times when we may also encounter challenges and opposition in our faith journey, but we should remain steadfast and faithful, recognizing and submitting to the divine power and authority of Jesus in our lives. We should also respect and honor the work of the Holy Spirit and to be mindful of our words and actions. Instead of being divided, let us be united in purpose and work together towards achieving a common goal.

A house divided, walls will shake, 

Foundations tremble, hearts will break. 

In unity, we find our strength, 

Together, we can go the length.

But if we let division grow, 

The seeds of discord we will sow. 

A house divided cannot stand, 

It crumbles like the shifting sand.

So let us strive for harmony, 

In love and peace, let us agree. 

For in our unity, we'll find, 

A house that's strong, a heart that's kind.

Lord Jesus, 

You teach us the power of unity, And the strength found in harmony. Help us to stand together, as one, In Your love, let our hearts be won. When divisions arise, and discord grows, Grant us the wisdom that only You know. To seek peace, and to understand, That united, we firmly stand.

Guide us, Lord, in every way, To build a house where love will stay. In Your name, we find our might, In unity, we shine Your light.

Amen.

Pericope:

II: The Mystery of Jesus

JESUS AND BEELZEBUL

Mark 3:22-30

Gospel Acclamation

Our Savior Jesus Christ has destroyed death and brought life to light through the Gospel.

Gospel | Mark 3:22-30

22 The scribes who had come from Jerusalem said of Jesus, “He is possessed by Beelzebul,” and “By the prince of demons he drives out demons.” 23 Summoning them, he began to speak to them in parables, “How can Satan drive out Satan? 24 If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. 25 And if a house is divided against itself, that house will not be able to stand. 26 And if Satan has risen up against himself and is divided, he cannot stand; that is the end of him. 27 But no one can enter a strong man’s house to plunder his property unless he first ties up the strong man. Then he can plunder his house. 28 Amen, I say to you, all sins and all blasphemies that people utter will be forgiven them. 29 But whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will never have forgiveness, but is guilty of an everlasting sin.” 30 For they had said, “He has an unclean spirit.”

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Be One with the Lord

Through Him the whole structure

is held together and grows 

into a temple sacred in the Lord; 

in Him you also are being 

built together into a 

dwelling place of God 

in the Spirit. 

(Ephesians 2:21-22)

Just as a building is joined together, believers are united in Christ. This unity is essential for spiritual growth and strength. Our faith journey is ongoing. We are continually being built up to become more like Christ. Described as a holy temple, our lives should reflect holiness and dedication to God. God’s Spirit dwells within us, guiding and empowering us to live according to His will. Reflecting on these lessons can help deepen our faith and understanding of our spiritual journey. 

In the stillness of the morning light,

When dawn breaks through the night,

Feel His presence, pure and bright,

Be one with the Lord, in His sight.

In the whispers of the gentle breeze,

Through rustling leaves and swaying trees,

Hear His voice, a call to peace,

Be one with the Lord, let worries cease.

In the warmth of the sun’s embrace,

In every smile, in every face,

See His love, His boundless grace,

Be one with the Lord, in every place.

In the trials that life may send,

In every heartache, every bend,

Trust His plan, on Him depend,

Be one with the Lord, your faithful friend.

In the quiet of the evening’s glow,

When stars in heaven start to show,

Feel His peace, let your heart know,

Be one with the Lord, wherever you go.

Dear Heavenly Father, in the quiet moments of our day, we come before You with humble hearts, seeking Your presence. Guide us to be one with You, Lord, in every moment of our lives and in all that we do. Help us to feel Your love in the gentle breeze, in the beauty of creation, to hear Your voice in the whispers of our hearts and in the stillness of our souls.

Lord Jesus, in times of joy and in times of sorrow, may we always turn to You, our faithful friend. In our joys and in our struggles, may we always find comfort in Your embrace. Grant us the strength and courage to trust in Your divine plan, follow Your path, and the peace to rest in Your comfort and care.

Holy Spirit, fill our hearts with Your wisdom and grace, peace and understanding. Lead us to walk in Your light, to spread Your love and compassion to all we meet. May we be vessels and instruments of Your peace, reflecting Your glory in every step we take.

Triune God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, we surrender our lives to You. Help us to be one with You, now and forevermore. Amen.

Pericope:

II. Unity of the Church in Christ

ONE IN CHRIST

Ephesians 2:11-22

First Reading | Ephesians 2:19-22

19 Brothers and sisters: You are no longer strangers and sojourners, but you are fellow citizens with the holy ones and members of the household of God, 20 built upon the foundation of the Apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the capstone. 21 Through him the whole structure is held together and grows into a temple sacred in the Lord; 22 in him you also are being built together into a dwelling place of God in the Spirit. 

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Published:

July 03, 2023, 6:44 AM

Show No Partiality

Show no partiality as you adhere to the faith 

in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ. 

JAMES 2:1

If a man with gold rings and fine clothes comes into your assembly, and a poor person in shabby clothes also comes in, and you pay attention to the one wearing the fine clothes and say, “Sit here, please,” while you say to the poor one, “Stand there,” or “Sit at my feet,” have you not made distinctions among yourselves and become judges with evil designs? (Jas 2:2-4)

Jesus said, “I ask you, is it lawful to do good on the sabbath rather than to do evil, to save life rather than to destroy it?” Looking around at them all, He then said to him, “Stretch out your hand.” He did so and his hand was restored. (Luke 6:9-10) “Have you not read what David did when he and those who were with him were hungry? How he went into the house of God, took the bread of offering, which only the priests could lawfully eat, ate of it, and shared it with his companions.” Then He said to them, “The Son of Man is lord of the sabbath.” (Lk 6:3-5)

Did not God choose those who are poor in the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom that He promised to those who love Him? (Jas 2:5) You are inflated with pride. Your boasting is not appropriate. (1 Cor 5:2,6). Learn not to go beyond what is written, so that none of you will be inflated with pride (1 Cor 4:6). Clear out the old so that you may become fresh (1 Cor 5:7). Celebrate the feast, not with the old yeast of malice and wickedness, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth. (1 Cor 5:8).

The Lord keeps all who love Him, but all the wicked He will destroy (Ps 145:20). The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth. He fulfills the desire of those who fear Him, He hears their cry and saves them. (Ps 145:18-19)

Lord Jesus, I know who You are—the Holy One of God! (Lk 4:34).  You, O God, delight not in wickedness; no evil man remains with You; the arrogant may not stand in Your sight. You hate all evildoers. You destroy all who speak falsehood; the bloodthirsty and the deceitful the Lord abhors. (Ps 5:5-7) But let all who take refuge in You be glad and exult forever. Protect them, that You may be the joy of those who love Your name. (Ps 5:12).

Published:

September 05, 2023, 5:27 PM