Matthew Chapter 12

Matthew Chapter 12
Matthew chapter 12 focuses on growing conflict between Jesus and the religious leaders concerning the Sabbath, authority, and the true nature of righteousness. Jesus defends His disciples for plucking grain on the Sabbath and heals a man with a withered hand, teaching that doing good is lawful on the Sabbath. The Pharisees begin plotting against Him as His ministry continues to draw large crowds.

Jesus casts out demons and heals the oppressed, but some accuse Him of using the power of Satan. Jesus warns against blasphemy against the Holy Spirit and teaches that words and actions reveal the condition of the heart. He also speaks about the danger of an unclean spirit returning to an empty life. The chapter concludes when Jesus teaches that those who do the will of His Father are His true spiritual family.