And the scribes who came down from Jerusalem said, ‘He has Beelzebul, and by the ruler of the demons he casts out demons.’ And he called them to him, and spoke to them in parables, ‘How can Satan cast out Satan? If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. And if a house is divided against itself, that house will not be able to stand. And if Satan has risen up against himself and is divided, he cannot stand, but his end has come. But no one can enter a strong man’s house and plunder his property without first tying up the strong man; then indeed the house can be plundered. (Mark 3:22-27)

A respected and learned pastor began to explore the mystical possibilities of healing by the Holy Spirit. After years of study and prayer he began to preach on his exploration. The sermons were increasingly passionate, very much in contrast to his previous style.

The Chairman of the Church Board was himself ordained and a long-time college professor of religion. He and the Chairman of the Elders, publisher of the local newspaper, asked a psychologist to interview the pastor. The pastor agreed to a series of talks.

The psychologist reported the pastor did not exhibit evidence of significant psychological problems. The exploration of mysticism continued. The sermons continued. A small book was published. Some were drawn to the new message, others decided to leave the church.

A few years later, while still in his fifties, the pastor was overcome by a sudden, fast-moving cancer. He prayed for healing. The healing did not come. I am told he died angry at God.

The entire controversy was dealt with politely and professionally. I wonder if the scribes were not, in a way, more helpful in proclaiming Jesus to be satanic. A spiritual debate was conducted on spiritual terms and produced spiritual outcomes.

Above is Satan Smiting Job by William Blake.