New Testament
Luke 11:17
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But Jesus, knowing their thoughts, said to them, "Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to ruin, and a house divided against itself will fall."
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But he, knowing their thoughts, said unto them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and a house divided against a house falleth.
What Luke 11:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus addresses the thoughts of those who were questioning Him. He points out that division leads to destruction, using the analogy of a kingdom or a house that cannot stand if it is divided against itself. This statement emphasizes the importance of unity and cooperation. Jesus implies that if He were casting out demons by the power of Satan, it would contradict the very nature of Satan's kingdom, which would ultimately lead to its downfall. The underlying message is that unity is essential for strength and survival, whether in a family, community, or any organization. Jesus' insight reveals His understanding of human nature and the consequences of internal conflict, urging listeners to recognize the importance of harmony in their lives and relationships.
How to apply Luke 11:17 to your life
This verse encourages us to seek unity in our relationships and communities. When we face conflicts, we should strive for resolution rather than division. By fostering cooperation and understanding, we can build stronger families and communities, avoiding the pitfalls of discord that lead to failure.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Plain Meaning
Jesus responds to the accusation that He casts out devils by the power of Beelzebub, the chief devil. He points out a simple fact: if a kingdom turns against itself, it falls apart. If a household fights against itself, it collapses. The point is that Satan would be destroying his own work if he were the one driving out his own devils. That makes no sense.
Read It in Context
In verse 14, Jesus cast a devil out of a man who could not speak. Some in the crowd accused Him of doing this through Beelzebub, the chief of the devils (verse 15). Jesus knew what they were thinking and answered before they could press the charge further. Verse 18 makes the application plain: if Satan is divided against himself, his kingdom cannot stand.
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At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 11:17 mean?
Luke 11:17 means that Jesus is highlighting the danger of division. He explains that a kingdom or a household cannot survive if it is divided against itself, emphasizing the need for unity to avoid destruction.
What is the meaning of 'a house divided against itself will fall' in Luke 11:17?
The phrase 'a house divided against itself will fall' in Luke 11:17 illustrates that internal conflict leads to failure. It suggests that unity is crucial for stability and success in any group or relationship.
How can I apply Luke 11:17 in my life?
You can apply Luke 11:17 by promoting harmony in your relationships and communities. When conflicts arise, focus on resolving them through understanding and cooperation to prevent division and its negative effects.
What themes are present in Luke 11:17?
Themes in Luke 11:17 include unity, division, destruction, and conflict resolution. The verse emphasizes the wisdom of maintaining harmony to ensure the strength and survival of families and communities.
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