Mark 9:39

New Testament Gospel ASV (1901)

What does Mark 9:39 say?

The American Standard Version records this verse as: “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.” Read the surrounding verses and the named sources below before drawing broader conclusions.

The verse

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.
Mark 9:39 — American Standard Version

Context — Mark 9

American Standard Version (1901) — public domain. Click any verse for its study page.
39But 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.

What do historical commentaries say?

John Gill's Exposition
John Gill (1697–1771) · Exposition of the Old and New Testament · 18th-century historical commentary
“But Jesus said, forbid him not, etc..] Neither him, nor any other they should hereafter meet with, who might be casting out devils in his name, giving this as a reason for it; for there is no man which shall do a miracle in my name; or “miracles”, as the Syriac version, as to cast out devils, or heal any sickness and disease, that can lightly speak evil of me: such a man can never reproach and blaspheme that name, which he makes use of in doing, and by which he does wonderful works; no man can call Jesus accursed, who casts out devils in his name; (see <461203>1 Corinthians 12:3), if he has spoken evil of him before, he cannot do it “again”, as the Persic version renders it, with any face;…”
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Barnes' Notes
Albert Barnes (1798–1870) · Notes on the Whole Bible · 19th-century historical commentary
“Forbid him not - Do not prevent his doing good. If he can work a miracle in my name, it is sufficient proof of attachment to me, and he should not be prevented. Can lightly speak evil of me - The word here rendered “lightly” means quickly or “immediately.” The meaning of the passage is, that he to whom God gave the power of working a miracle, by that gave evidence that he could not be found among the enemies of Jesus. He ought not, therefore, to be prevented from doing it. There is no reason to think here that John had any improper designs in opposing the man. He thought that it was evidence that he could not be right, because he did not join them and follow the Saviour. Our Lord taught him…”
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Wesley's Explanatory Notes
John Wesley (1703–1791) · Explanatory Notes upon the New Testament and Old Testament notes · 18th-century historical commentary
“Jesus said - Christ here gives us a lovely example of candour and moderation. He was willing to put the best construction on doubtful cases, and to treat as friends those who were not avowed enemies. Perhaps in this instance it was a means of conquering the remainder of prejudice, and perfecting what was wanting in the faith and obedience of these persons. Forbid him not - Neither directly nor indirectly discourage or hinder any man who brings sinners from the power of Satan to God, because he followeth not us, in opinions, modes of worship, or any thing else which does not affect the essence of religion. Mark 9:40”
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Treasury of Scriptural Knowledge
R. A. Torrey and contributors · The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge · Cross-reference reference work
“Forbid: Mar 10:13, Mar 10:14; Mat 13:28, Mat 13:29; Phi 1:18 there: Mat 7:22, Mat 7:23; Act 19:13-16; Co1 9:27, Co1 13:1, Co1 13:2 lightly: Co1 12:3 Mark 9:40”
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Related study paths

Sources and verification