Matthew 12:24-37

24But when the Pharisees heard about the miracle, they said, “No wonder he can cast out demons. He gets his power from Satan, the prince of demons.”

25Jesus knew their thoughts and replied, “Any kingdom divided by civil war is doomed. A town or family splintered by feuding will fall apart.

26And if Satan is casting out Satan, he is divided and fighting against himself. His own kingdom will not survive.

27And if I am empowered by Satan, what about your own exorcists? They cast out demons, too, so they will condemn you for what you have said.

28But if I am casting out demons by the Spirit of God, then the Kingdom of God has arrived among you.

29For who is powerful enough to enter the house of a strong man and plunder his goods? Only someone even stronger—someone who could tie him up and then plunder his house.

30“Anyone who isn’t with me opposes me, and anyone who isn’t working with me is actually working against me.

31“So I tell you, every sin and blasphemy can be forgiven—except blasphemy against the Holy Spirit, which will never be forgiven.

32Anyone who speaks against the Son of Man can be forgiven, but anyone who speaks against the Holy Spirit will never be forgiven, either in this world or in the world to come.

33“A tree is identified by its fruit. If a tree is good, its fruit will be good. If a tree is bad, its fruit will be bad.

34You brood of snakes! How could evil men like you speak what is good and right? For whatever is in your heart determines what you say.

35A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart.

36And I tell you this, you must give an account on judgment day for every idle word you speak.

37The words you say will either acquit you or condemn you.”