It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, and the servant as his lord. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more shall they call them of his household?
Jesus continues: 'It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, and the servant as his lord. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more shall they call them of his household?' (αρκετον τω μαθητη ινα γενηται ως ο διδασκαλος αυτου και ο δουλος ως ο κυριος αυτου ει τον οικοδεσποτην Βεελζεβουλ επεκαλεσαν ποσω μαλλον τους οικιακους αυτου). 'Enough' (αρκετον) means sufficient—being like the master is adequate goal. Disciples needn't exceed Jesus; conformity to Him suffices. Then Jesus cites specific slander: enemies called Him 'Beelzebub' (Βεελζεβουλ, 'lord of the flies,' Satan). If they slandered the master as demon-possessed, 'how much more' (ποσω μαλλον) His 'household' (οικιακους)? If Jesus faced such accusations, His followers will too. This prepares disciples for slander, misrepresentation, and demonization.
Historical Context
Beelzebub (also Baalzebub) derives from Philistine god Baal-zebub (2 Kings 1:2), meaning 'lord of the flies.' Jews used it contemptuously for Satan. Religious leaders' accusation that Jesus cast out demons by Beelzebub (Matthew 9:34, 12:24) was blasphemous slander: attributing the Holy Spirit's work to Satan. Early Christians faced similar accusations: atheism (denying pagan gods), cannibalism (misunderstanding communion), immorality (secret meetings). Roman and Jewish sources slandered Christians grotesquely. Jesus' prediction prepared believers: expect slander; it confirms identification with Christ.
Questions for Reflection
How should Christians respond to slander and misrepresentation?
What does this passage teach about the cost of identification with Christ?
How can we maintain witness integrity when falsely accused?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Jesus continues: 'It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, and the servant as his lord. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more shall they call them of his household?' (αρκετον τω μαθητη ινα γενηται ως ο διδασκαλος αυτου και ο δουλος ως ο κυριος αυτου ει τον οικοδεσποτην Βεελζεβουλ επεκαλεσαν ποσω μαλλον τους οικιακους αυτου). 'Enough' (αρκετον) means sufficient—being like the master is adequate goal. Disciples needn't exceed Jesus; conformity to Him suffices. Then Jesus cites specific slander: enemies called Him 'Beelzebub' (Βεελζεβουλ, 'lord of the flies,' Satan). If they slandered the master as demon-possessed, 'how much more' (ποσω μαλλον) His 'household' (οικιακους)? If Jesus faced such accusations, His followers will too. This prepares disciples for slander, misrepresentation, and demonization.