Mark 9:38 Meaning and Explanation
“And John answered him, saying, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and he followeth not us: and we forbad him, because he followeth not us.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →John reports that the disciples stopped a man casting out demons in Jesus' name because he was not of their company.
What Does Mark 9:38 Mean?
John speaks up: Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and we forbad him. The reason is given twice over: he followeth not us. Strikingly, the disciples who had just failed to cast out a spirit (v. 18) have silenced a man who was succeeding.
The objection is revealing: not he followeth not thee, but he followeth not us. Loyalty to the group had quietly taken the place of loyalty to the Lord, and zeal for our own circle can wear the costume of zeal for Christ. The verse holds up a mirror to every heart that resents grace at work outside its fences. Jesus' answer comes next, and it is generous.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mark 9:38
What does Mark 9:38 mean?
John reports that the disciples stopped a man casting out demons in Jesus' name because he was not of their company.