King James Version

What Does Mark 3:23 Mean?

“And he called them unto him, and said unto them in parables, How can Satan cast out Satan?”

Context

And when his friends heard of it, they went out to lay hold on him: for they said, He is beside himself. friends: or, kinsmen

And the scribes which came down from Jerusalem said, He hath Beelzebub, and by the prince of the devils casteth he out devils.

And he called them unto him, and said unto them in parables, How can Satan cast out Satan?

And if a kingdom be divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand.

And if a house be divided against itself, that house cannot stand.

Read full chapter →

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(23) **Said unto them in parables.**—The word is used in its wider sense, as including any form of argument from analogy more or less figurative. As in most reports of discourses as distinct from facts, St. Mark is somewhat briefer than St. Matthew.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Mark. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Mark 3:23 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.