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.
LUKE 11:17KJVWhat does Luke 11:17 mean?
Luke 11:17 means that Jesus, aware of what people were thinking, explained that any kingdom or household that is divided against itself will end up in ruin or collapse. The verse uses the image of division within a group to show that internal conflict leads to destruction.
In this scene, Jesus is speaking to a crowd that includes critics who accused him of casting out demons by the power of an evil spirit. Jesus responds by pointing out the obvious truth that no group—whether a kingdom or a family—can survive if it is torn apart from within. This sets up his argument that his power cannot come from evil, since evil would not work against itself.
The Greek behind Luke 11:17
- διαμερισθεῖσα (diameristheisa, "divided"): This word means to be split or separated into parts. The Greek here emphasizes a deep internal division, not just a disagreement, but a tearing apart that destroys unity.
- ἐρημοῦται (erēmoutai, "is brought to desolation"): This verb means to be made deserted or laid waste. It highlights the end result of division—complete ruin or abandonment.
- οἶκος (oikos, "house"): In Greek, "house" can mean a family, household, or even a dynasty. The use here suggests both literal homes and larger groups held together by relationship or purpose.
Why Luke 11:17 matters
- Luke 11:17 clears up the accusation that Jesus was working for evil by showing that evil would not undermine itself; a divided force cannot stand.
- The verse highlights the importance of unity, whether in families, communities, or larger groups, by stressing the destructive power of internal conflict.
- This statement sets the stage for Jesus’ further teaching in the passage, where he explains the true source of his authority and power.