But the Pharisees said, “It is by the prince of demons that He drives out demons.”
The Pharisees answer the miracle with a charge that he works through the prince of demons.
Their verdict hardens the chapter's conflict instead of joining the crowd's amazement.
27As Jesus went on from there, two blind men followed Him, crying out, “Have mercy on us, Son of David!” 28After Jesus had entered the house, the blind men came to Him. “Do you believe that I am able to do this?” He asked. 29Then He touched their eyes and said, “According to your faith will it be done to you.” 30And their eyes were opened. Jesus warned them sternly, “See that no one finds out about this!” 31But they went out and spread the news about Him throughout the land. 32As they were leaving, a demon-possessed man who was mute was brought to Jesus. 33And when the demon had been driven out, the man began to speak. The crowds were amazed and said, “Nothing like this has ever been seen in Israel!” 34But the Pharisees said, “It is by the prince of demons that He drives out demons.”