Why is this text so important for us? It warns us against one very dangerous situation. Let us note that, in general, Christ's commandments and the Gospel as a whole can in a certain sense be compared to road signs that...
Why is this text so important for us? It warns us against one very dangerous situation. Let us note that, in general, Christ's commandments and the Gospel as a whole can in a certain sense be compared to road signs that warn of danger: for example, "sharp curve," "slope," or "ice." They really are bright symbols, carefully placed to warn us away from trouble.
What troubles, then, does the text given to us today by the Lord warn us against? There is something here to think about. What does a person experience when he understands that he has come through some temptation with honor? As a rule, he experiences a certain pride; there is no getting around it. And perhaps, to some extent, this is normal. But the question is precisely one of measure, the eternal question of measure: as soon as the measure is exceeded, a crack opens into our inner space, where the place once occupied by sin has not yet had time to be occupied by anything else.
Yes, our victories should be precious to us, but we must not forget the main thing: after Christ conquered, He Himself was conquered, nailed to the Cross, crucified. So we too, after conquering evil in ourselves, are in fact wounded by it, sick with it. And we need to guard our inner space very carefully, as someone going outside after a severe sore throat must wrap his throat well and put on warm socks.
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12:43 But how dreadful will be the consequence of their rejecting me? When the unclean spirit goeth out - Not willingly, but being compelled by one that is stronger than he. He walketh - Wanders up and down; through dry places - Barren, dreary, desolate; or places not yet watered with the Gospel: Seeking rest, and findeth none - How can he, while he carries with him his own hell? And is it not the case of his children too? Reader, is it thy case? Luk 11:24.
12:44 Whence he came out - He speaks as if he had come out of his own accord: See his pride! He findeth it empty - of God, of Christ, of his Spirit: Swept - from love, lowliness, meekness, and all the fruits of the Spirit: And garnished - With levity and security: so that there is nothing to keep him out, and much to invite him in.