New Testament
Mark 9:39
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
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.
- Author
- John Mark
- Written
- Around AD 55-65
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Roman and Gentile Christians
But Jesus said, "Do not stop him, for no one who performs a miracle in my name can quickly speak evil of me."
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.
Verse Analysis
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. Explore related fear.
Related Bible verses
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
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.

The Book of Mark
Mark 1: John the Baptist and the Beginning of Jesus's Ministry
John the Baptist appears in the wilderness and preaches a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. People from Judaea and Jerusalem come to him, confess their sins, and are baptized in the river Jordan. John wears camel's hair and a leather belt and eats locusts and wild honey. He announces that someone stronger than he is coming after him and says he is not worthy to stoop down and untie his sandals. He baptizes with water, but the one coming will baptize with the Holy Ghost.
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