In parables (εν παραβολαις). In crisp pungent thrusts that exposed the inconsistencies of the scribes and Pharisees. See on Mark 3:13 for discussion of the word

parable (παραβολη, placing beside for comparison). These short parabolic quips concern Satan's casting out (εκβαλλε, the very word used of casting out demons) Satan (rhetorical question), a kingdom divided (μερισθη, for a mere portion) against itself, a house divided (μερισθη) against itself, two conditions of the third class undetermined, but with prospect of determination.