Mark 9:38 – “‘Teacher,’ said John, ‘we saw someone driving out demons in your name and we told him to stop, because he was not one of us.’”

Extended Explanation

In Mark 9:38, John approaches Jesus with a concern. He tells Jesus that they saw someone casting out demons in His name but stopped him because the man wasn’t part of their group. John’s statement reflects a sense of exclusivity among the disciples—they believed that only those who were part of Jesus’ inner circle should be allowed to minister in His name.

The man they stopped was clearly doing good work—he was successfully casting out demons in Jesus’ name, which suggests he had genuine faith. However, the disciples’ focus wasn’t on the good being done but on the fact that the man wasn’t part of their group. This reveals a common human tendency to create divisions based on group identity and to assume that only “insiders” are qualified to do God’s work. Jesus’ response in the next verse will challenge this mindset.

Historical Context

In Jewish culture, there were established religious leaders (such as Pharisees and priests) who were seen as the spiritual authorities. The disciples may have been adopting a similar mindset, believing that they had exclusive authority because they were personally chosen by Jesus. At the same time, exorcisms were not uncommon in the ancient world. Jewish exorcists often used rituals, but this man was casting out demons specifically in Jesus’ name, showing that he recognized Jesus’ power and authority.

The disciples’ reaction also reflects their ongoing misunderstanding of Jesus’ mission. They were still thinking in terms of human boundaries—who was “in” and who was “out.” But Jesus’ mission was to bring salvation to all who believe in Him, not to create an exclusive club.

Theological Implications

This verse raises several key theological ideas:

1. God’s Work Is Bigger Than Our Groups: The disciples assumed that only they had the authority to cast out demons, but Jesus will soon correct this. God’s work is not limited to a single group or denomination. His power is available to all who call on Him in faith.
2. Humility in Ministry: The disciples’ attitude shows a sense of pride and possessiveness over their ministry. Jesus teaches that ministry should be about serving others and glorifying God, not about guarding one’s own authority or influence.
3. Unity in the Body of Christ: This verse points toward the broader concept of unity in the church. While different believers may have different roles, all genuine followers of Christ are part of the same mission, and we should celebrate the work God does through others.

Literary Analysis

Mark’s Gospel often highlights the disciples’ misunderstandings to teach deeper lessons about Jesus’ mission. This verse fits that pattern. John, speaking on behalf of the disciples, reveals their exclusivist mindset. His use of the phrase “he was not one of us” highlights their concern about maintaining control over who could act in Jesus’ name.

The scene also contrasts with the disciples’ recent failure to cast out a demon (Mark 9:18). They had just experienced their own limitations, yet they were quick to stop someone else who was succeeding. This literary contrast underscores the theme of humility and dependence on God’s power, not human authority.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• Numbers 11:26-29 – Joshua tells Moses to stop two men who were prophesying, but Moses replies, “I wish that all the Lord’s people were prophets.”
• Luke 9:49-50 – A parallel passage where Jesus responds, “Do not stop him, for whoever is not against you is for you.”
• 1 Corinthians 12:12-14 – The body of Christ is made up of many parts, but all belong to the same body.
• Philippians 1:15-18 – Paul rejoices that Christ is preached, even if it is by people outside his circle.
• Romans 14:4 – We should not judge another servant of the Lord because God is the one who sustains them.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

Mark 9:38 challenges us to think about how we view other believers and ministries. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that only people from our church, denomination, or group are doing God’s work correctly. But this verse reminds us that God’s work is not confined to our circle. If someone is serving Christ faithfully, we should celebrate that rather than feel threatened by it.

This verse also encourages humility in ministry. Just as the disciples needed to learn that they didn’t have exclusive rights to God’s power, we must remember that ministry is about serving others and advancing God’s kingdom, not protecting our own influence or reputation.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is seen in His inclusiveness. He doesn’t limit His work to a select group of people—He works through anyone who has faith in Him. This reflects His desire for all people to be saved and to participate in His mission. God’s love is expansive, reaching beyond human boundaries and divisions.

God’s love is also shown in His patience with the disciples. Instead of rebuking them harshly, Jesus gently corrects their misunderstanding. This reflects God’s loving and patient nature as He guides His people into a fuller understanding of His kingdom.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

This verse highlights Jesus’ authority and the power of His name. The fact that someone outside the group was able to cast out demons in Jesus’ name shows that His power is not limited to a specific group of followers—it is available to all who trust in Him. This points to the universal nature of Jesus’ mission: salvation and healing are available to all who call on Him.

Additionally, this verse connects to Jesus’ teaching about the importance of unity in the body of Christ. Just as Jesus welcomed those outside His immediate circle, we are called to embrace other believers and recognize that we are all part of the same mission, working together to glorify Him.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Why do you think the disciples were concerned about someone outside their group performing miracles in Jesus’ name?
2. How does this verse challenge you to think about other believers or ministries outside your own circle?
3. Are there times when you’ve felt possessive over your role in ministry or hesitant to support others who are doing God’s work?
4. How can you celebrate the work that God is doing through others, even when it doesn’t directly involve you?
5. What does this passage teach you about humility and unity within the body of Christ?

Mark 9:38 reminds us that God’s work is not limited to any one group or person. As followers of Christ, we are called to focus on the bigger picture—God’s kingdom—and to celebrate the ways He works through others. When we embrace humility and unity, we reflect the heart of Jesus and contribute to the mission of spreading His love and truth to the world.