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Skeptics vs Cynics | Matthew 9:32-34
Feel free to question, but be prepared to accept the answer
Caleb Lee
February 23, 2024
Skepticism has its place.
But you can’t get to a place where you’re denying logic for the sake of being skeptical. That’s pure cynicism.
32 As they were going away, behold, a demon-oppressed man who was mute was brought to him. 33 And when the demon had been cast out, the mute man spoke. And the crowds marveled, saying, “Never was anything like this seen in Israel.” 34 But the Pharisees said, “He casts out demons by the prince of demons.”
I understand why the Pharisees said this. At this point, Jesus is getting all the attention, and He’s taking it away from them.
Rightfully so! Jesus was literally healing diseases and ailments that were impossible to heal back then.
But that doesn’t mean the Pharisees weren’t jealous of Him. That didn’t make the situation any better.
Their hearts were so hardened towards Jesus that they didn’t see the joy and wonder that came upon all who witnessed the healing.
Hence, the skeptical question that defies logic.
“He casts out demons by the prince of demons.”
17 But he, knowing their thoughts, said to them, “Every kingdom divided against itself is laid waste, and a divided household falls. 18 And if Satan also is divided against himself, how will his kingdom stand? For you say that I cast out demons by Beelzebul. 19 And if I cast out demons by Beelzebul, by whom do your sons cast them out? Therefore they will be your judges. 20 But if it is by the finger of God that I cast out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you.
Jesus breaks down their logic here.
Why would Jesus cast out demons using the power of a demon?
A kingdom divided loses the war. Jesus and the demons are on opposite sides of this conflict. Otherwise, Jesus would have left the demon alone.
But this is the kind of skepticism that many bring to the table when thinking about Jesus.
Skepticism for skepticism’s sake.
I think that’s why Peter writes later in the Bible,
15 but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect,
How do you prepare to make a defense?
By knowing Jesus and His Word.
Have a blessed Friday and a wonderful weekend, my friends.