Mark 9:40
What does Mark 9:40 mean?
A plain-English look at Mark 9:40 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Mark 9:40 means
Jesus expands on His inclusive principle, stating, "For he that is not against us is for us." This proverb teaches that if someone is not actively opposing Christ and His cause, they should be considered an ally, or at least not an enemy. It challenges the disciples' tendency towards narrow-mindedness and encourages a broader perspective on who is serving God, promoting unity and focusing on shared purpose rather than strictly defined affiliations.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000For he that is not against us is for us.
KJV
King James Version · 1611For he that is not against us is on our part.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901For he that is not against us is for us.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949He who is not against us is for us.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862for he who is not against us is for us;
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752For whosoever shall give you to drink a cup of water in my name, because you belong to Christ: amen I say to you, he shall not lose his reward.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890for he who is not against us is for us.
Context
This verse provides a guiding principle that reinforces Jesus' previous instruction not to forbid an outsider ministering in His name. It directly follows His explanation that good work in His name ensures loyalty. This concise statement broadens the disciples' understanding of partnership in the kingdom, setting the stage for a further illustration of how even small acts of support for believers are recognized and rewarded by God.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Luke 11:23
He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth.
- Matthew 12:30
He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth.
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