King James Version
What Does Matthew 9:34 Mean?
“But the Pharisees said, He casteth out devils through the prince of the devils.”
Context
32
As they went out, behold, they brought to him a dumb man possessed with a devil.
33
And when the devil was cast out, the dumb spake: and the multitudes marvelled, saying, It was never so seen in Israel.
34
But the Pharisees said, He casteth out devils through the prince of the devils.
35
And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people.
36
But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted , and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. fainted: or, were tired and lay down
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(34) **Through the prince of the devils.**—In Matthew 12:24-30 the charge reappears, with the addition of the name of “Beelzebub,” as the prince of the devils; and, together with our Lord’s answer to it, will be better discussed in the Notes on those verses. Here it will be enough to note the coincidence with Matthew 10:25, which shows that the accusation had been brought before the mission of the Twelve, related in the following chapter.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Matthew. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Matthew 9:34 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Matthew 9:34
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge