A Day in the Life of Jesus
Have you ever caught yourself thinking someone had no business doing ministry work because they weren’t part of your church or denomination? I have. And the disciples did too. In Mark 9:38–42, we find John coming to Jesus with what he thought was a justified report. “Teacher, we saw someone casting out demons in Your name,” he said, “but we told him to stop—because he wasn’t one of us.”
At first glance, John’s concern might sound like loyalty. But Jesus immediately corrects him: “Don’t forbid him! For no one who does a miracle in My name will quickly turn and speak evil of Me. Anyone who isn’t against us is for us.” That response must have surprised the disciples—and it still challenges us today. Jesus was reshaping their understanding of community, ministry, and unity. He was saying that if someone is working in His name and not actively opposing Him, then they’re more ally than adversary. It’s not about who’s in our circle; it’s about who’s truly pointing to Christ.
I’ve often asked myself: How often do we get so caught up in our labels and affiliations that we miss the bigger picture? The disciples’ concern wasn’t about heresy or false teaching—it was about territory, recognition, and familiarity. That same impulse can creep into our hearts when we dismiss someone’s good work simply because they’re “not part of us.” Maybe they worship differently, pray differently, or serve in places we’re not used to. But if they’re doing it in Jesus’ name and for His glory, are we resisting the very work of God?
Jesus’ words in Mark 9:40 carry weight: “Anyone who isn’t against us is for us.” This doesn’t mean neutrality is acceptable in all things—in fact, Matthew 12:30 gives us the flip side: “Whoever is not with Me is against Me.” These two verses don’t contradict—they complement. In Mark, Jesus speaks to the disciples’ exclusivity; in Matthew, He addresses those who passively ignore or oppose Him. Together, they teach us that following Christ requires clarity and conviction, but also grace for others who are walking toward the same goal, even if by different paths.
Let’s talk about the reasons we shut others out of ministry. The article outlines four common barriers, and I’ve wrestled with each:
1. We’re uncomfortable with those outside our denomination or church culture. It’s easy to feel safe inside our traditions, whether liturgical, charismatic, or somewhere in between. But when we refuse to partner with those who aren’t “one of us,” we risk turning the church into a club instead of a mission. Jesus’ Kingdom is broader than our boundaries.
2. We judge others based on who they are—not what they’re doing for Christ. Sometimes we hesitate to support a good cause because we’re not sure about the people involved. Maybe their background is different or their methods seem unconventional. But Jesus often used unlikely people to accomplish His purposes—from tax collectors to fishermen. Shouldn’t we have eyes to see fruit, not just labels?
3. They don’t do things the way we’re used to. Style has a strange way of becoming sacred. Whether it’s how someone preaches, prays, or leads worship, we often get stuck in “our way is the right way.” But Scripture reminds us that God’s Spirit moves in unexpected ways. Jesus honored faith wherever He found it.
4. We want credit—or fear losing it. This one stings. Sometimes we avoid collaboration because we’re afraid our role will go unnoticed. Maybe we think, “If they succeed, people won’t see what I’ve done.” But that’s not Kingdom thinking—it’s self-promotion. Jesus calls us to humility, not hierarchy.
So what should we do when we encounter someone outside our tradition serving Christ? I’ve learned to start with a simple question: Is Jesus being glorified? If the answer is yes, then maybe it’s time to lay down our insecurities and lift up the name of Christ together.
And Jesus doesn’t stop at acceptance—He offers encouragement. “If anyone gives you even a cup of water because you belong to Christ,” He says, “they will certainly not lose their reward.” That’s how deeply God values even the smallest acts of service done in His name. Imagine how pleased He must be when His people work together.
But then Jesus gives a strong warning: “If anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to stumble, it would be better if a millstone were hung around his neck and he were cast into the sea.” That’s a sobering image. It reminds me that when we criticize or discourage someone genuinely trying to serve Jesus—even if imperfectly—we risk wounding a fellow believer and placing ourselves in spiritual danger.
So today, I’m asking: Who have I been quick to judge because they’re not part of my group? Who might be serving Christ in ways I’ve ignored or dismissed? Am I building the Kingdom—or just guarding my corner of it?
Jesus calls us to something greater than comfort or control—He calls us to unity in His name. Correct theology is crucial, yes. But right belief should lead to right behavior. And if someone shares our faith in Jesus, then we have more in common than we might think.
Let’s be people who build bridges, not walls. Let’s be the ones who encourage every good work done in Jesus’ name, even when it doesn’t bear our stamp. Let’s pray for humility to see God’s work beyond our borders, and the courage to join it.
Blessing
May God bless your heart of devotion as you study the life of your Lord today. May His Spirit give you discernment to see where His Kingdom is growing and the grace to celebrate it, even when it surprises you. Walk today in unity, compassion, and truth, knowing that Jesus is at work in places and people beyond what we can see.
Recommended Article:
How to Partner Across Differences – The Gospel Coalition
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