Mark 3:26
What does Mark 3:26 mean?
A plain-English look at Mark 3:26 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Mark 3:26 means
Jesus directly applies the principle of division to Satan's kingdom. He highlights that if Satan were to fight against himself by empowering Jesus to cast out demons, his kingdom would be internally fractured, leading to its ultimate demise. This makes it clear that Jesus' power must come from a source *opposed* to Satan, otherwise, Satan's kingdom would inevitably collapse due to its own self-inflicted destruction. This is why Jesus is the strong man binding Satan.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000And if Satan hath risen up against himself, and is divided, he cannot stand, but hath an end.
KJV
King James Version · 1611And if Satan rise up against himself, and be divided, he cannot stand, but hath an end.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901And if Satan hath risen up against himself, and is divided, he cannot stand, but hath an end.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949And if Satan is at war with himself, and there is division in him, he will not keep his place but will come to an end.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862and if the Adversary did rise against himself, and hath been divided, he cannot be made to stand, but hath an end.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752And if Satan be risen up against himself, he is divided, and cannot stand, but hath an end.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890And if Satan rise up against himself, and is divided, he cannot subsist, but has an end.
Context
This verse brings Jesus' logical argument to its conclusion, directly applying the concept of division to Satan's own realm. It serves as the immediate precursor to the "strong man" parable, setting up the understanding that Jesus' actions are not internal demonic conflict, but rather an invasion of Satan's territory. This leads directly to the explanation of how Jesus can spoil Satan's house.
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