Mark 9:39

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.

But {G1161} Jesus {G2424} said {G2036}, Forbid {G2967} him {G846} not {G3361}: for {G1063} there is {G2076} no man {G3762} which {G3739} shall do {G4160} a miracle {G1411} in {G1909} my {G3450} name {G3686}, that {G2532} can {G1410} lightly {G5035} speak evil {G2551} of me {G3165}.

But Yeshua said, "Don't stop him, because no one who works a miracle in my name will soon after be able to say something bad about me.

“Do not stop him,” Jesus replied. “For no one who performs a miracle in My name can turn around and speak evil of Me.

But Jesus said, Forbid him not: for there is no man who shall do a mighty work in my name, and be able quickly to speak evil of me.

Commentary

Context

This verse immediately follows an incident where John, one of Jesus' disciples, reported seeing an unknown person casting out demons in Jesus' name. John and the other disciples had forbid him because he was not part of their immediate company. Jesus' response in Mark 9:39 directly addresses this exclusive mindset, teaching His disciples about the broader nature of God's work and the true criteria for allegiance.

Key Themes

  • Inclusivity in God's Work: Jesus challenges the disciples' narrow view that only those directly following Him in their specific group could legitimately perform miracles or act on His behalf. He emphasizes that anyone doing good in His name, even if not formally aligned with their circle, is effectively on their side. This principle is further reinforced in the very next verse, "For he that is not against us is on our part."
  • The Power of Jesus' Name: The ability to perform a miracle, specifically casting out demons, "in my name" (Greek: en tō onomati mou) signifies genuine spiritual authority derived from Christ. Such an act demonstrates a real, if perhaps partial, allegiance to Jesus, making it highly unlikely for the person to then "lightly speak evil" of Him.
  • Genuine Allegiance Over Formal Affiliation: Jesus prioritizes the fruit of genuine faith and allegiance (miracles done in His name) over strict organizational or group affiliation. This teaching suggests that God's Spirit is not confined to one specific denomination or religious body.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "forbid him not" comes from the Greek mē kōlyete, meaning "do not hinder" or "do not prevent." It's a direct command to cease their restrictive actions. The expression "lightly speak evil of me" translates from tachy kakologēsai, implying that one who has experienced and demonstrated the power of Jesus' name would not easily or casually slander Him. Their actions reveal a core alignment with Jesus.

Related Scriptures

This passage has a parallel account in Luke 9:49-50, reinforcing the consistency of Jesus' teaching on inclusivity. The power of Jesus' name is a recurring theme in the New Testament, seen in the apostles' healing ministry (e.g., Acts 3:6 where Peter heals in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth) and as a source of authority against evil spirits (Acts 19:13). This principle encourages unity among believers, as also discussed in 1 Corinthians 1:10 regarding divisions in the church.

Practical Application

Mark 9:39 encourages believers today to cultivate a spirit of broadmindedness and humility. It reminds us that God works through various individuals and groups, often beyond our immediate circles or denominations. Instead of being quick to condemn or "forbid" those who are genuinely serving Christ and producing good fruit, we should recognize and appreciate the diverse ways God's Spirit is at work. This verse promotes unity in purpose within the broader body of Christ, focusing on shared allegiance to Jesus rather than strict conformity to human-made boundaries. It challenges us to celebrate all who act in the name of Christ, even if their methods or affiliations differ from our own, recognizing that true discipleship is evidenced by fruit and alignment with His mission.

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 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.

  • 1 Corinthians 13:1

    ¶ Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become [as] sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.

  • 1 Corinthians 13:2

    And though I have [the gift of] prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.

  • Matthew 7:22

    Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?

  • Matthew 7:23

    And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

  • 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.

  • Matthew 13:28

    He said unto them, An enemy hath done this. The servants said unto him, Wilt thou then that we go and gather them up?
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