Definition: And if Satan cast out Satan, he is divided against himself; how shall then his kingdom stand?

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this famous Bible passage together! It’s a really thought-provoking one and it speaks to the ongoing battle between good and evil. Here’s an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about the stability of God's kingdom – His plan for everything to work out well – when there’s a strong, disruptive force opposing it. It’s asking a really important question: How can a powerful and established kingdom (God’s rule) survive if there’s someone actively trying to undermine it? Let’s unpack the parts: “Matthew 12:26” : This is the verse itself. It's a passage from the Gospel of Matthew, which tells about Jesus’ first miracle – healing a man with a broken leg. “And if Satan cast out Satan…” : This refers to Satan, who is often portrayed as a powerful and rebellious force. He’s essentially trying to cause chaos and opposition. “…he is divided against himself” : This is the key part. When Satan successfully casts someone out (like he does in the story of the Prodigal Son – he gets lost and causes trouble), he's not just defeated; he's broken apart . Imagine a strong, well-built house being torn down by an earthquake – it’s unstable! So, what does this mean for our kingdom? The verse suggests that: God’s Kingdom is Strong: God’s kingdom isn’t just about a peaceful existence; it’s designed to be powerful and secure. Evil Can Disrupt It: Satan's actions, his attempts to challenge God and His plan, will eventually weaken the foundation of that kingdom. It Needs Protection: The verse implies that God needs a way to protect His kingdom from being undermined by evil forces. What’s the point? It’s a reminder that: Evil is a constant threat. We can't be complacent about opposition. God provides strength and protection. The verse isn't saying God can't be challenged, but it's highlighting the need for His power to overcome evil and maintain order. In short, the verse is a warning that constant opposition will ultimately weaken God’s kingdom – and we need to be vigilant against it! --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you another Bible passage with a similar theme?