Philippians 1.20-27
(Epistle)
20according to my earnest expectation and hope, that I will in no way be disappointed, but with all boldness, as always, now also Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death.
21For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.
22But if I live on in the flesh, this will bring fruit from my work; yet I don’t know what I will choose.
23But I am hard pressed between the two, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better.
24Yet to remain in the flesh is more needful for your sake.
25Having this confidence, I know that I will remain, yes, and remain with you all for your progress and joy in the faith,
26that your boasting may abound in Christ Jesus in me through my presence with you again.
27Only let your way of life be worthy of the Good News of Christ, that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of your state, that you stand firm in one spirit, with one soul striving for the faith of the Good News;
Luke 11.14-23
(Gospel)
14He was casting out a demon, and it was mute. When the demon had gone out, the mute man spoke; and the multitudes marveled.
15But some of them said, “He casts out demons by Beelzebul, the prince of the demons.”
16Others, testing him, sought from him a sign from heaven.
17But he, knowing their thoughts, said to them, “Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation. A house divided against itself falls.
18If Satan also is divided against himself, how will his kingdom stand? For you say that I cast out demons by Beelzebul.
19But if I cast out demons by Beelzebul, by whom do your children cast them out? Therefore they will be your judges.
20But if I by God’s finger cast out demons, then God’s Kingdom has come to you.
21“When the strong man, fully armed, guards his own dwelling, his goods are safe.
22But when someone stronger attacks him and overcomes him, he takes from him his whole armor in which he trusted, and divides his plunder.
23“He who is not with me is against me. He who doesn’t gather with me scatters.