And Jesus said unto him, Forbid [him] not: for he that is not against us is for us.
And {G2532} Jesus {G2424} said {G2036} unto {G4314} him {G846}, Forbid {G2967} him not {G3361}: for {G1063} he {G3739} that is {G2076} not {G3756} against {G2596} us {G2257} is {G2076} for {G5228} us {G2257}.
Yeshua said to him, “Don’t stop such people, because whoever isn’t against you is for you.”
“Do not stop him,” Jesus replied, “for whoever is not against you is for you.”
But Jesus said unto him, Forbid him not: for he that is not against you is for you.
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Luke 11:23
He that is not with me is against me: and he that gathereth not with me scattereth. -
Matthew 12:30
He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad. -
Philippians 1:15
Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will: -
Philippians 1:18
What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice. -
1 Corinthians 12:3
Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and [that] no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost. -
Luke 16:13
No servant can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. -
Proverbs 3:5
Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
Luke 9:50 presents a profound teaching from Jesus about inclusivity in ministry and the broader scope of God's Kingdom. This verse challenges the disciples' narrow view of who is authorized to do God's work, providing a timeless principle for Christian service and unity.
Context
This statement by Jesus comes immediately after a significant event in the disciples' journey. In the preceding verse, Luke 9:49, John reports to Jesus that they had "found one casting out devils in thy name; and we forbad him, because he followeth not with us." This incident follows Jesus' teaching on humility and greatness among His followers, suggesting the disciples might have been struggling with a sense of exclusive authority. The parallel account in Mark 9:38-40 confirms John as the speaker and highlights the disciples' concern that this individual was not part of their immediate group or circle.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The phrase "is for us" in Greek is hyper hēmōn (ὑπὲρ ἡμῶν). This preposition hyper means "on behalf of," "in favor of," or "for the benefit of." It denotes active support and alignment with Christ's mission and His followers, underscoring that the individual was working in concert with, rather than in opposition to, the divine will.
Related Scriptures
While this verse emphasizes inclusivity, it's important to understand it in balance with other teachings. Jesus also stated in Matthew 12:30, "He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad." This seemingly contradictory statement highlights the importance of discernment: Luke 9:50 addresses those who are doing good in Christ's name even if outside one's direct group, while Matthew 12:30 warns against active opposition or neutrality in the face of spiritual warfare. The Apostle Paul also echoed a similar sentiment regarding different motivations for preaching Christ, rejoicing that Christ was proclaimed regardless, as seen in Philippians 1:15-18.
Practical Application
Luke 9:50 serves as a powerful reminder for believers today to avoid sectarianism and spiritual pride. It encourages us to:
This verse challenges us to look beyond superficial differences and discern genuine alignment with Christ's purposes, fostering a spirit of collaboration and mutual support in spreading His message.