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But some among them said, "It is by the power of Baal-zebul, the Prince of the demons, that he expels the demons."
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Others, to put Him to the test, asked Him for a sign in the sky.
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And, knowing their thoughts, He said to them, "Every kingdom in which civil war rages goes to ruin: family attacks family and is overthrown.
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And if Satan really has engaged in fierce conflict with himself, how shall his kingdom stand?--because you say that I expel demons by the power of Baal-zebul.
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And if it is by the power of Baal-zebul that I expel the demons, by whom do your disciples expel them? They therefore shall be your judges.
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But if it is by the power of God that I drive out the demons, it is evident that the Kingdom of God has come upon you.
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"Whenever a strong man, fully armed and equipped, is guarding his own castle, he enjoys peaceful possession of his property;
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but as soon as another stronger than he attacks him and overcomes him, he takes away that complete armour of his in which he trusted, and distributes the plunder he has collected.
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Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever is not gathering with me is scattering abroad.
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"When a foul spirit has left a man, it roams about in the Desert, seeking a resting-place; but, unable to find any, it says, `I will return to the house I have left;"
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and when it comes, it finds the house swept clean and in good order.