Charles Ellicott Commentary Matthew 12:25

"And knowing their thoughts he said unto them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand:" — Matthew 12:25 (ASV)

Jesus knew their thoughts — The Searcher of Hearts saw the meaning of the whispers and the looks of real or feigned horror, and now provides a full answer to the charge. Of all the accusations brought against Him, this was the one that caused the greatest pain and provoked the most indignant response. He had restored peace, joy, and freedom of reason and will to those who had lost them. He had been doing His Father’s work on earth, yet He was accused of being allied with the powers of evil. The work of healing was portrayed as the Tempter's bait, luring people to their final destruction.

Every kingdom divided against itself — The answer assumes, as the teaching of the New Testament does from first to last, the existence of a kingdom of evil that is compact and organized, with a distinct unity of purpose. The laws that govern the life of other kingdoms are also applicable to that one. Its head and ruler was not likely to undertake a work that was self-destructive. Reason, calmness, and peace—these were not his gifts to humanity.