Who Is Beelzebul? (Matthew 12:24, NKJV)

Question: Who is Beelzebul according to the Bible, and why did the Pharisees accuse Jesus of casting out demons by his power?

Answer:

The name Beelzebul (sometimes spelled Beelzebub) originates from Hebrew roots and means “Lord of the flies” or “Lord of dung”, symbolizing filth and decay. Over time, it came to refer to the ruler of demons—a title associated with Satan himself.

In Matthew 12:22-24 (NKJV), we read:

“Then one was brought to Him who was demon-possessed, blind and mute; and He healed him, so that the blind and mute man both spoke and saw. And all the multitudes were amazed and said, ‘Could this be the Son of David?’ Now when the Pharisees heard it they said, ‘This fellow does not cast out demons except by Beelzebub, the ruler of the demons.’”

Here, the Pharisees, jealous and threatened by Jesus’ growing influence and miraculous power, falsely accused Him of working with Satan (Beelzebul) to cast out demons. Their claim was that Jesus’ authority came not from God, but from the prince of demons.

Who Is Beelzebul?

Beelzebul is a title that refers to Satan, the adversary of God and humanity. Scripture clearly identifies Satan as the ruler of the fallen angelic hosts and the spiritual forces of evil:

• Revelation 12:9 (NKJV):
  “So the great dragon was cast out, that serpent of old, called the Devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world…”
• Ephesians 2:2 (NKJV):
  “…the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience…”

Jesus firmly rejected the Pharisees’ accusation with divine wisdom and logic. He pointed out that Satan cannot cast out Satan, because a kingdom divided against itself cannot stand.

Matthew 12:25-28 (NKJV):
“Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation… If Satan casts out Satan, he is divided against himself. How then will his kingdom stand?… But if I cast out demons by the Spirit of God, surely the kingdom of God has come upon you.”

This passage reveals that true deliverance can only come through the Holy Spirit, not through the enemy. Satan does not liberate people—he enslaves them.

Why the Accusation Matters

The Pharisees’ claim wasn’t just a personal attack—it was spiritual blindness. Jesus was performing miracles that clearly demonstrated divine power, yet they attributed these works to the devil. In doing so, they were dangerously close to committing the unpardonable sin—blasphemy against the Holy Spirit.

Matthew 12:31-32 (NKJV):
“Therefore I say to you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven men, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven men.”

The Deception of Satan

Satan never frees anyone. Those who turn to witch doctors or spiritualists in search of healing or relief may experience temporary changes, but this is not true deliverance. What often happens is the problem is reshaped or a different demon is introduced, making the person believe they’ve improved—when in reality, they are further ensnared.

2 Corinthians 11:14 (NKJV):
“And no wonder! For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light.”

True freedom comes only from Jesus Christ.

John 8:36 (NKJV):
“Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.”

Visiting witch doctors or sorcerers will only add to your spiritual problems. The enemy may disguise suffering, but he cannot remove it. Only Jesus has the authority to cast out demons, heal brokenness, and give eternal life.

Final Call

If you’ve been considering turning to witchcraft, spiritual mediums, or traditional healers for help, now is the time to turn back. Jesus is the only One with the power to set you free completely.

Acts 4:12 (NKJV):
“Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”

Run to Jesus today. He is not only able, but also willing to save, heal, and deliver.

Maranatha! (The Lord is coming soon!)

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