Definition: But when the Pharisees heard [it], they said, This [fellow] doth not cast out devils, but by Beelzebub the prince of the devils.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that verse from Matthew 12:24. It’s a really important part of understanding early Christian beliefs about Jesus. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: Jesus is telling his followers (the Pharisees) that he doesn’t just perform miracles – like healing people or making things happen – but he’s also dealing with something much more powerful and potentially dangerous: demonic forces. Let's unpack it piece by piece: "But when the Pharisees heard [it]..." - This refers to a conversation between Jesus and his followers, specifically the Pharisees, who were very concerned about Jesus’s actions. "...they said, This [fellow] doth not cast out devils..." – This is the core of the verse. The Pharisees are accusing him of doing something that goes beyond just performing miracles – they believe he's actively summoning and controlling demons! They’re saying he’s casting out devils (which is a very old belief about demonic influence). "...but by Beelzebub the prince of the devils." - This is where it gets interesting. Beelzebub was a powerful, evil demon in Jewish folklore. The Pharisees believe Jesus has made a pact with this demon, granting him power over these forces. So, what does it mean? It suggests that Jesus’s actions – particularly his resurrection and the fact he's shown authority over death – might be connected to demonic influence. They were worried about the potential for evil to gain control over him. Important Context: This verse is a crucial moment in early Christian history because it highlights the growing concern among Jewish leaders about Jesus’s power and his connection with Satan. It was a key point of contention leading up to the Council of Jerusalem, where the issue of Jesus's divine status was debated intensely. In short, the verse warns against any action that could be seen as being controlled by evil. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible passage? Go into more detail about a specific aspect of this verse (like the history of demonology)?