Book of Matthew - Chapter 10 - Verse 25

The verse "It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, and the servant as his lord. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more shall they call them of his household?" is a passage found in the Gospel of Matthew, in which Jesus is instructing his disciples about the challenges they will face as followers of him. The verse is a reminder to his followers that they should not expect to be treated any better than their master, Jesus himself, who was often criticized, persecuted, and even called names like Beelzebub, a derogatory term meaning "lord of the flies." By comparing his disciples to members of his household, Jesus is preparing them for the opposition and ridicule they will encounter, urging them to remain steadfast and faithful despite the hardships they may face.

Within this verse from the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus is instructing his disciples about the persecution and hardships they may face as they spread his message. The theological interpretation of this passage emphasizes the importance of disciples following in the footsteps of their teacher, even if that means enduring mistreatment and slander from others. By comparing the disciples to their master and the servants to their lord, Jesus is teaching them that they should expect the same treatment he received. The reference to Beelzebub, a Philistine god associated with Satan, underscores the severity of the persecution the disciples may face. This verse challenges believers to remain steadfast in their faith and follow Christ faithfully, regardless of the opposition they may encounter. Through word studies, scholars have also explored the origins and connotations of terms like Beelzebub, shedding light on the cultural and historical context in which this passage was written.