What does Mark 9:40 mean?

Explanation

Mark 9:40 is a verse attributed to Jesus Christ during his earthly ministry, spoken in the context of a conversation with His disciples.

The verse reads: "For he that is not against us is on our part." At its most basic level, this verse suggests that those who do not actively oppose Jesus and His followers may be considered allies.

The deeper implication, however, is a principle of inclusivity.

Jesus is broadening the definition of who can be considered a part of God's kingdom work.

Instead of seeing people in strict terms of being with or against the community of believers, it suggests a more open and less divided approach to relationships and spiritual community.

Historical Context

This verse occurs in the Gospel of Mark, which is generally believed to have been written between 66-70 A.D.

The immediate context of Mark 9:40 is an incident where the apostles report to Jesus that someone outside their immediate group was casting out devils in Jesus' name.

The disciples told the person to stop because he was not part of their group.

Jesus' response, culminating in verse 40, suggests a correction of their exclusivist mindset.

Historically, the early Jesus movement was defining itself and its boundaries, and this verse speaks into discussions of authority, identity, and community among the followers of Christ.

Theological Insights

Theologically, Mark 9:40 challenges a closed community concept.

From an ecumenical perspective, the verse is cited to promote unity among different Christian denominations and traditions.

It can also be interpreted to affirm the validity of broader spiritual experiences, suggesting that God can work through individuals outside the traditional circles of religious authority or institutional frameworks.

From a more conservative viewpoint, it may be argued that while common cause can be found in shared goals or actions, this does not necessarily imply theological agreement or endorsement.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, Mark 9:40 can encourage individuals and communities to be more accepting and less quick to judge others who are not part of their inner circle but who do good works.

It can serve as a basis for collaboration and cooperation with others on social justice issues, community service, and interfaith dialogue.

This verse can also inspire personal reflection on the nature of one's own alliances and judgments about who is 'in' or 'out' concerning one's faith community.

Cross-References

• Luke 9:50: "And Jesus said unto him, Forbid [him] not: for he that is not against us is for us."
• Matthew 12:30: "He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad."

Language Study

The key phrase in the original Greek is "ὑπὲρ ἡμῶν" ("hyper hēmōn") which translates to "for us" or "on our part." The term "ὑπὲρ" (hyper) can mean 'for the benefit of', 'on behalf of', or 'in defense of'.

The preposition is often used to denote a favorable position.

The phrasing implies an alignment that is not active hostility; it is an implicit endorsement or at least a lack of opposition.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Mark 9:40 can be compared with other religious and philosophical traditions that emphasize inclusivity.

For example, in Hinduism, the concept of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' translates to 'the world is one family', denoting a universal brotherhood.

Within Buddhism, there is a focus on compassion and kindness that extends beyond one's immediate community.

In Confucianism, the concept of Ren (仁) is fundamental, which speaks to benevolence towards others.

Scientific Perspectives

The scientific community typically does not directly engage with biblical verses.

However, concepts in social psychology such as 'in-group bias' and 'out-group homogeneity effect' are relevant to the themes in Mark 9:40.

These scientific theories examine how individuals perceive those within their groups versus those outside and can provide insight into the human tendency to create divisions and how Jesus' statement might challenge those tendencies.

Commentaries

Scholars and theologians offer diverse interpretations of Mark 9:40.

Some focus on the context of early Christian communities and the importance of avoiding sectarianism. Others highlight the verse as a basis for ecumenism and interfaith dialogue.

Commentators like William Lane note that the verse shows Jesus correcting his disciples' misunderstanding of what constitutes the true people of God, emphasizing inclusivity over exclusivity.

Matthew Henry's commentary suggests the verse teaches charity and warns against envy or contempt for those who do good work but may not align with one's own community or practices.