Mark 9:38-40 is about Jesus emphasizing that whoever is not against us is for us, highlighting that unity in faith can be found even among those who may not follow him directly, as long as the ultimate goal is to serve God.
38 John said to him, “Teacher, we saw someone casting out demons in your name, and we tried to stop him, because he was not following us.”
39 But Jesus said, “Do not stop him, for no one who does a mighty work in my name will be able soon afterward to speak evil of me.
40 For the one who is not against us is for us.
Setting the Scene for Mark 9:38-40
In Mark chapter 9, we find Jesus and his disciples traveling through Galilee, teaching and ministering to the people. As they journey, they come across a scene where John, one of the disciples, approaches Jesus with concern. John tells Jesus that they saw someone casting out demons in His name, but because the person was not following them, they tried to stop him.
Jesus, surrounded by his disciples and a crowd of onlookers, responds with wisdom and grace. He tells John not to stop the man, for anyone who performs a miracle in His name will not be able to speak evil of Him soon after. Jesus uses this moment to teach his disciples about the inclusivity of His ministry and the importance of unity among believers, regardless of their specific affiliation.
The scene is set against the backdrop of the bustling streets of Galilee, with people going about their daily activities. The disciples, including John, Peter, and the others, are gathered around Jesus, listening intently to His words. The atmosphere is charged with curiosity and anticipation as Jesus imparts valuable lessons about faith, humility, and the kingdom of God.
What is Mark 9:38-40 about?
It is powerful to reflect on the message of unity that Jesus teaches in this verse. Jesus emphasizes the importance of coming together as believers, setting aside our differences and focusing on our shared faith in Him. This reminder serves as a guiding light for how we should strive to interact with one another, with love and understanding as the central values.
When Jesus mentions that “whoever is not against us is for us,” He is highlighting the idea that anyone who is not directly opposing the teachings of Jesus can still be considered an ally in spreading His message. This challenges us to look beyond surface-level differences and instead focus on the common ground we share in our faith. This verse encourages us to foster a sense of inclusivity and acceptance within our community of believers, recognizing that our unity in Christ is far more significant than any other distinctions that may exist among us. Let us heed this message and work towards building a community rooted in love, respect, and unity, just as Jesus intended for His followers.
Understanding what Mark 9:38-40 really means
In the Gospel of Mark, we encounter a moment where the disciples express concern to Jesus about someone outside their immediate circle casting out demons in His name. The key phrases in this passage hold significant meanings that resonate with us today. When it is mentioned that the individual was “casting out demons in your name,” it highlights the power and authority vested in Jesus’ name, recognized even by those not directly part of the disciples’ group. The disciples’ worry that “he was not following us” reveals their concern for exclusivity and control over who can perform miracles in Jesus’ name. However, Jesus’ response to “do not stop him” emphasizes inclusivity and the broader mission of spreading God’s work beyond their immediate circle. The statement “whoever is not against us is for us” underscores the importance of unity and cooperation in God’s mission, rather than fostering division and exclusion.
This passage finds resonance in other biblical texts, such as Numbers 11:26-29, where Moses desires all of God’s people to prophesy, and Philippians 1:15-18, where Paul prioritizes the message of Christ over the messenger. Additionally, 1 Corinthians 12:4-6 speaks to the unity in diversity within the body of Christ, emphasizing the diversity of gifts but the same Spirit. These passages collectively reinforce the themes of inclusivity, unity, and recognizing God’s work through various individuals and means.
The relevance of this passage extends to our lives today by teaching us the importance of inclusivity in faith. It encourages us to support and embrace those who work for good in Jesus’ name, even if they do not belong to our immediate community or denomination. Furthermore, it urges us to avoid division and focus on common goals and shared values, especially in a world often divided by religious, social, and political lines. By recognizing God’s work in unexpected places and through diverse individuals, we open ourselves to a broader understanding of God’s kingdom and the ways in which His love is manifested in the world.
To illustrate this message, consider a scenario where churches from different denominations collaborate on a community project to serve the homeless. Initially hesitant due to doctrinal differences, they eventually realize that their shared mission to help those in need transcends their theological distinctions. This unity in action mirrors the essence of Jesus’ teaching in this passage, emphasizing the importance of working together towards a common goal.
In conclusion, the passage from Mark 9:38-40 challenges us to embrace a broader vision of God’s kingdom that surpasses human-made boundaries. It calls us to be inclusive, to acknowledge God’s work in unexpected places, and to celebrate the diverse ways in which His love is expressed in the world. Let us heed this call to unity, cooperation, and recognition of God’s work beyond our immediate circles, embodying the spirit of inclusivity and love that Jesus exemplified.
What does it mean to truly follow Christ?
To truly follow Christ means recognizing that those who are not against Him are for Him. It means understanding that even those who may not be part of our group or circle of believers can still be doing the work of God in their own way. It means welcoming and accepting others who may not look, act, or believe exactly as we do, as long as they are focused on serving and honoring Christ.
Following Christ requires us to shift our focus from exclusivity to inclusivity, from division to unity. It means celebrating the shared goal of spreading love, kindness, and God’s message of hope, rather than dwelling on our differences or disagreements. It challenges us to see beyond our own limited perspectives and embrace the beauty of diversity in the body of Christ.
Truly following Christ involves setting aside our ego, prejudices, and desire for control, and instead opening our hearts to the vastness of God’s kingdom. It means letting go of the need to be right or superior, and humbly recognizing that Christ’s love knows no boundaries or restrictions. Ultimately, embodying the essence of Christ’s teachings involves living out love, compassion, and acceptance towards all, regardless of any perceived differences or barriers.
Application
Think of faith like a great team project at work or a supportive family gathering. We must include everyone who shares our belief in Jesus, regardless of their background. Don’t let differences stop us from achieving our shared goal of spreading the Gospel. Will you be the one to set aside barriers and unite with others in love and service?
Reverend Michael Johnson is an experienced Church Minister with a profound expertise in spirituality and guidance. With a serene presence and a compassionate heart, he has faithfully served his congregation for over 20 years, leading them on a spiritual journey towards inner peace and enlightenment. Reverend Johnson’s extensive knowledge of religious philosophies and profound understanding of human nature have made him a trusted confidant and mentor to many, as he seamlessly weaves his profound wisdom into life teachings. Reverend Johnson’s calming demeanor and empathetic nature continue to uplift and heal souls, nurturing a sense of unity and tranquility within his community.