The Understanding of the Beelzebul

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Third Week : Monday*

*Gospel : Mk 3:22-30*

*First Reading : Heb 9:15, 24-28*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 98:1, 2-3ab, 3cd-4, 5-6*

*The Understanding of the Beelzebul*

*1) Who is Beelzebul?*

*Beelzebul* is a name associated with demonic power, often referred to as the "*prince of demons* in the Bible. 

The name itself likely derives from the Philistine god Baal-Zebub, meaning "lord of the flies" (2 Kings 1:2-3, 6). 

Gradually, Jewish tradition transformed this name into a title for a high-ranking demonic being, often equated with Satan or his emissary.

In Mark 3:22, the scribes accuse Jesus of being possessed by Beelzebul and casting out demons by his power. 

This reflects both the spiritual misconceptions of the time and the mounting opposition to Jesus' ministry.

*2) Beelzebul as a Representation of Satan’s Power*

Beelzebul symbolizes the power of Satan and his dominion over the fallen world. 

The scribes’ accusation assumes that Jesus’ authority over demons could only come from an association with the devil.

However, Jesus refutes this by pointing out the absurdity of Satan working against himself (Mark 3:23–26).

*3) The Danger of Mis-attributing God’s Power*

By attributing Jesus’ divine works to Beelzebul, the scribes commit a grave error. 

The accusation highlights how the religious leaders failed to recognize the work of God. 

Instead of seeing Jesus’ authority over evil as a sign of divine power, they attributed it to demonic influence. This reflects the danger of spiritual blindness—where preconceived notions or hardened hearts prevent people from perceiving truth.

This reflects the hardness of their hearts and their refusal to acknowledge the work of the Holy Spirit.

Jesus warns that such resistance could lead to blasphemy against the Spirit, which has no forgiveness, resulting in eternal Sin

*4) Jesus as the Stronger One*

In His response, Jesus declares that He is capable of plundering the strong man 

The imagery of strong man is attributed to Satan

But Jesus has the power to bind the *strong man* and able tp  plunder his house.

Thus Jesus makes it very clear that  Beelzebul and all the forces of evil are subject to Christ’s authority.

This imagery demonstrates that Jesus is inaugurating God’s kingdom, by overthrowing the dominion of Satan, and setting captives free.

*5) The Battle Between Two Kingdoms*

The scribes’ accusation reflects the clash between two kingdoms: the kingdom of God and the kingdom of Satan. 

Jesus’ ministry—casting out demons, healing, and preaching—demonstrates that the kingdom of God is advancing, and Satan’s rule is being overthrown.

*6) The Working of the Beelzebul*

The different forms of the  Beelzebul can effect even to  our life as well. These are the various forms 

The Pride as the Beelzebul

The jealousy as the Beelzebul

The  greed as the Beelzebul

The Revenge  as the Beelzebul

The attachments to the bodily pleasures as the Beelzebul

The addiction to drinks and drugs as the Beelzebul

The selfishness  as the Beelzebul

The  unjust ways of life  as the Beelzebul

Am I able to plunder the Works of  Beelzebul?

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*