New Testament
Mark 9:39
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But Jesus said, "Do not stop him, for no one who performs a miracle in my name can quickly speak evil of me."
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But Jesus said, Forbid him not: for there is no man which shall do a miracle in my name, that can lightly speak evil of me.
What Mark 9:39 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus addresses a situation where His disciples see someone casting out demons in His name and want to stop him because he is not one of their group. Jesus tells them not to hinder this person, emphasizing that anyone who performs miracles in His name is aligned with Him. This statement highlights the idea that the power of God can work through various individuals, not just the immediate followers of Jesus. It suggests that the effectiveness of ministry is not limited to a specific group but can extend to anyone who genuinely acts in faith. Jesus reassures His disciples that those who do good in His name cannot easily turn against Him. This teaches the importance of recognizing and valuing the work of others who serve God, even if they are not part of one's own community or circle.
How to apply Mark 9:39 to your life
This verse encourages us to be open-minded about who can serve God and perform good works. We should support and recognize the efforts of others, even if they are not part of our immediate community. Embracing a broader perspective can foster unity and collaboration in faith.
Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary
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Illustrated scene from John the Apostle's story: “Forbid Him Not” (Mark 9:38–41)
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John the Apostle
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
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Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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At a Glance — the Book of Mark
- Author
- John Mark
- Written
- Around AD 55-65
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Roman and Gentile Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Mark 9:39 mean?
In Mark 9:39, Jesus tells His disciples not to stop someone who is casting out demons in His name, indicating that those who perform miracles in His name are aligned with Him. This highlights the idea that God's power can work through anyone who acts in faith, regardless of their affiliation with Jesus' immediate followers.
What is the significance of performing miracles in Jesus' name in Mark 9:39?
Performing miracles in Jesus' name signifies a genuine connection to Him and His authority. Jesus emphasizes that those who do such works cannot easily turn against Him, reinforcing the idea of unity among those who serve God.
How does Mark 9:39 relate to unity in faith?
Mark 9:39 promotes unity in faith by showing that God's work can be done by anyone who believes, not just those within a specific group. This encourages believers to appreciate and support the efforts of others in serving God.
What lesson can we learn from Mark 9:39?
Mark 9:39 teaches us to be open-minded and supportive of those who serve God, even if they are not part of our immediate community. It encourages collaboration and recognition of good works across different groups.
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