Ellen White on Mark 9:38-40: Overcoming Exclusive Spirits

Mark 9:38-40

38 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.

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.

40 For he that is not against us is on our part.

Mark 9:38-40 teaches that Christ’s followers must maintain a far-reaching sympathy and avoid a narrow, exclusive spirit toward those who labor for God in ways that differ from their own methodsDA 437.5+1.

The Danger of a Narrow and Exclusive Spirit

The disciples, specifically John, manifested a spirit of self-preferment and jealousy when they forbade a man from casting out devils simply because he was not part of their immediate companyAA 543.3+1. They thought they were defending the Lord's honor, but they were actually being jealous for their ownHLv 296.2+1. Jesus rebuked this attitude, teaching that no one who performs a miracle in His name can easily speak evil of Him Mark 9:39. This experience serves as a warning against the human tendency toward pharisaism and the desire to control the labor of others5T 461.2+1.

Principles of Christian Unity and Diversity

The work of God is vast, and He employs a variety of gifts and methods to reach different classes of people6MR 238.2+1.

• Individuality in Service: God gives to every person their work according to their specific abilityST February 7, 1900, par. 2+1.

• Avoiding Condemnation: We are not justified in forbidding or discouraging someone from laboring for God just because they do not conform to our personal opinions or methodsDA 437.5+1.

• Cooperation over Control: Leading brethren should not lay hands on the humblest worker to demand they labor only in a specific channel; rather, they should strengthen their hands5T 461.2.

• The Test of Character: If a worker's life and character are exemplary, they should be encouraged to work in whatever capacity they can5T 461.2+1.

Far-Reaching Sympathy

Christ is the Great Teacher, and every soul willing to be used is a channel through which He reveals His loveDA 437.5.

• Learning from Christ: Instead of judging or commanding others, followers of Christ should sit humbly at His feet to learn His ways Matthew 11:29DA 437.5.

• Recognizing Friends of Truth: Anyone who is not against Christ is considered to be on His part Mark 9:40.

• Tenderness for Souls: We must be careful not to discourage "light bearers" and thereby intercept the rays of light God intends for the worldDA 437.5.

• Broadening our Influence: A spirit of harmony and love in labor provides the most convincing evidence of faith in ChristRH September 23, 1909, par. 9.

Applying the Lesson Today

This historical account is highly relevant for modern medical missionary workers, ministers, and teachers4MR 376.3+1.

• Collaborative Effort: Medical missionaries and ministers are called to unite in soul-saving work rather than working independently or in opposition4MR 376.3+1.

• Removing Prejudice: Cultivating kindness and Christian courtesy helps to win souls and break down walls of superstitionTSS 32.2+1.

• Maintaining Focus: The third angel's message is the grand, ennobling truth that should unite the church in fellowship and loveHS 122.3.

• God's Sovereignty: Ultimately, God is the one who works in us to will and to do of His good pleasure, and we are merely His helping hand Philippians 2:134BC 1151.3+1.