Matthew 12:43

Unclean spirit. [Seven Unclean Spirits, Matt. 12:43-45. See on parables pp. 203-207.] Synonymous with “demon.” The comments Christ here makes (vs. 43-45) may be taken as a continuation of His discussion of the unpardonable sin (vs. 31-37). Christ had been interrupted (see vs. 38-42) in His line of thought by this demand for a sign, and He now resumes where He left off, after having replied to that demand. The counsel given here (vs. 43-45) is particularly applicable to those who have listened to the gospel message gladly, but have not yielded to the Holy Spirit (DA 323). These had not yet committed the unpardonable sin, and Jesus warns them not to. For a discussion of demon possession see Additional Note on Mark 1.

In the case of disease a relapse often results in a condition far more serious than that occasioned by the original illness. Physical strength, already greatly diminished, is often powerless before the renewed onslaught of disease. A relapse is often due to the patient’s failure to realize his physical weakness, and to a fatal sense of over-confidence in himself. When recuperating from the sickness of sin we should trust wholly in the merits and power of Christ.

Dry places. Desert regions, where the spirit would find no human beings — no “house” (v. 44) — and would, accordingly, be restless because it was homeless.