Mark 9:40
For he that is not against us is on our part.
Original Language Analysis
ὃς
G3739
ὃς
Strong's:
G3739
Word #:
1 of 9
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
γὰρ
For
G1063
γὰρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
2 of 9
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
ἐστιν
he that is
G2076
ἐστιν
he that is
Strong's:
G2076
Word #:
4 of 9
he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are
καθ'
against
G2596
καθ'
against
Strong's:
G2596
Word #:
5 of 9
(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
Historical Context
This principle guided early church relationships. Paul affirmed Apollos' ministry though he was taught independently (Acts 18:24-28; 1 Corinthians 3:4-6). Early Christians distinguished between
- heretics denying essential doctrine (1 John 2:18-23; 2 John 7-11)
- immature or incomplete believers (Acts 18:24-26; 19:1-7),
- genuine believers with different practices or emphases (Romans 14:1-15:7; 1 Corinthians 8-10).
Jesus' principle 'not against us is for us' applies to category three—genuine believers working in Christ's name deserve partnership. However, false teachers actively opposing Christ (category one) must be rejected. Discernment distinguishes between doctrinal disagreement among believers and fundamental opposition to Christ.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Jesus' principle balance necessary doctrinal boundaries with generous affirmation of all genuinely advancing His kingdom?
- What's the difference between healthy theological discernment and sectarian exclusivism that divides Christ's body unnecessarily?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Jesus stated a crucial principle: 'For he that is not against us is on our part' (ὃς γὰρ οὐκ ἔστιν καθ' ἡμῶν, ὑπὲρ ἡμῶν ἐστιν). This seems opposite to Matthew 12:30: 'He that is not with me is against me.' The difference is context. In Matthew 12, Pharisees attributed Jesus' exorcisms to Satan—active opposition. Here, the person performed genuine ministry in Jesus' name—active alignment. Jesus teaches nuanced discernment: don't assume neutrality equals hostility. Those performing kingdom work in Christ's name, even outside official structures, should be affirmed not opposed. However, active opposition (Matthew 12:30) reveals spiritual allegiance. In contested territory (spiritual warfare), neutrality is impossible—either advancing or opposing. But those genuinely working for Christ, though not organizationally aligned, deserve partnership not prohibition.