MARK 09:38-41
ANOTHER EXORCIST
Text – Mark 9:38–41
38 John said to him, “Teacher, we saw someone driving out demons in your name, and we tried to prevent him because he does not follow us.”
39 Jesus replied, “Do not prevent him. There is no one who performs a mighty deed in my name who can at the same time speak ill of me.
40 For whoever is not against us is for us.
41 Anyone who gives you a cup of water to drink because you belong to Christ, amen, I say to you, will surely not lose his reward.”
Historical and Jewish Context
At this point in Mark’s Gospel, Jesus continues His instruction on discipleship and humility. John’s concern reflects a common attitude among the Jewish religious groups of the time, who often defined righteousness by membership and affiliation. In the ancient Jewish context, exorcism was known among various religious teachers, and the use of a divine name was considered a source of spiritual power. John’s objection arises because the man performing exorcisms was not part of their immediate circle of disciples.
Jesus, however, corrects this narrow perspective, emphasizing that God’s work is not limited to one group or visible boundary. His response—“Do not prevent him”—reveals that anyone acting in faith and invoking His name for good participates, in some measure, in His mission. The statement “Whoever is not against us is for us” contrasts sharply with the exclusivism of the Pharisees and affirms that divine grace can operate outside visible structures, as long as it is directed toward good and truth.
Catholic Theological Perspective
In Catholic theology, this passage highlights the universality of Christ’s mission and the inclusive nature of God’s grace. Jesus teaches that authentic acts done in His name, even by those not formally within the visible Church, possess spiritual value and can contribute to the building of the Kingdom. This anticipates the Church’s teaching in Lumen Gentium (Vatican II), which recognizes that elements of truth and sanctification exist beyond the Catholic Church, through the working of the Holy Spirit.
The mention of giving “a cup of water” underscores the importance of even the smallest act of charity performed out of love for Christ. Such gestures, though simple, are eternally significant when done in faith. The passage calls believers to avoid jealousy, competition, or spiritual pride, reminding them that God’s mission is greater than any single ministry or denomination. The unity of believers must rest not on external uniformity but on shared fidelity to Christ’s name and His love.
Parallels in Scripture
Numbers 11:26–29 – Moses rebukes Joshua for jealousy over others prophesying: “Would that all the Lord’s people were prophets!”
Matthew 12:30 – “Whoever is not with me is against me.” (A complementary teaching showing context-dependent meaning.)
Luke 9:49–50 – Parallel account emphasizing openness and unity.
1 Corinthians 12:4–11 – The same Spirit works through diverse gifts for the common good.
Philippians 1:15–18 – Paul rejoices that Christ is proclaimed, even by those with differing motives.
Key Terms
In your name: Acting with faith and invoking the authority of Christ.
Do not prevent him: A command for openness and generosity toward others doing good.
Cup of water: Symbol of simple yet meaningful charity offered in Christ’s love.
Reward: Eternal recognition from God for sincere acts of faith and mercy.
Catholic Liturgical Significance
This passage is read during Ordinary Time to remind the faithful of the unity of all who serve Christ in sincerity. It inspires ecumenical openness and cooperation among Christians, emphasizing that God’s grace extends beyond institutional boundaries. The Church uses this teaching to encourage humility in ministry and respect for diverse charisms within the Body of Christ. Every work done in Christ’s name, no matter how small, becomes a participation in His redemptive mission.
Conclusion
Jesus broadens the disciples’ understanding of divine mission. True discipleship welcomes all who act in His name and promotes love over rivalry. Even a small act of kindness offered because of faith in Christ carries eternal value. The Church’s mission, therefore, is to encourage good wherever it is found and to recognize God’s hand working through all who love and serve truth.
Reflection
Do I ever feel jealous or critical of others who do good in Christ’s name? The Lord calls me to rejoice in every work of grace, no matter who performs it, for all good comes from Him.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, open my heart to rejoice in the good that others do in Your name. Remove from me all envy and pride. Help me to see every act of love and service as part of Your divine work in the world. Grant that I may perform even the smallest deeds with great love, knowing that nothing done for You will be lost. Amen.