Matthew 12:24 (KJV)

What does Matthew 12:24 mean?

Matthew 12:24 describes how the Pharisees, after hearing about Jesus casting out demons, accused Him of using the power of Beelzebub, whom they called the prince of demons, rather than acting by God’s authority. This verse shows the Pharisees’ skepticism and their attempt to discredit Jesus by linking His miracles to an evil source.

In this scene, the Pharisees—religious leaders in Jesus’ time—are responding to Jesus’ miracles, specifically His casting out of demons. Instead of acknowledging the good done, they claim Jesus is working through “Beelzebub,” a name often associated with a chief demon or evil spirit. Their accusation reveals both their opposition to Jesus and their unwillingness to accept His authority or the possibility that His power comes from God.

The Greek behind Matthew 12:24

• “Βεελζεβούλ” (Beelzeboul, transliterated “Beelzebub”): This name is often understood as referring to a major evil spirit or the chief of demons. The Pharisees’ use of this name shows they are accusing Jesus of being in league with the worst kind of evil, not just any demon.
• “ἄρχων” (archōn, translated “prince”): This word means a ruler or leader. By calling Beelzebub the “prince of the devils,” the Pharisees are emphasizing the idea that Jesus’ power comes from the highest authority among evil spirits, not from God.
• “ἐκβάλλει” (ekballei, translated “cast out”): This verb means to drive out or expel. The Pharisees are specifically questioning the source of Jesus’ authority to expel demons, suggesting it is not divine.

Why Matthew 12:24 matters

• This verse clears up the common misunderstanding that everyone who witnessed Jesus’ miracles accepted Him; in fact, some religious leaders actively tried to undermine Him.
• The accusation reveals the depth of the Pharisees’ opposition and their unwillingness to consider that Jesus’ power could be from God, setting up the following verses where Jesus responds to their logic.
• Understanding the use of “Beelzebub” and “prince of the devils” helps clarify just how serious and hostile the Pharisees’ accusation was, framing it as a direct challenge to Jesus’ identity and mission.