Luke 9:49, commentary and pictures

The saying stands in the time when Christ was in the world reflecting light upon the people, with the time nearly come when He should be taken from them and desiring them to remember all He had said to them. It belongs to the teaching in Luke 9:26-62 that must be studied to get its meaning, so that hearts are in full harmony with Christ and intelligent about His work and what He will do for those who follow on to know the Lord. His going forth is prepared as the morning with continual increase of light. Such study prepares for a coming time of trials and persecutions everywhere.

The verse records John reporting that the disciples, including John and James, forbade a man casting out demons in Jesus' name because he did not follow with them or join their company. John sincerely told Jesus what they had done. Their objection reflected self-sufficiency and a desire to decide who could join their number and stand as a leader. In reply in the next verse Jesus taught them not to forbid him, for one doing a miracle in His name could not lightly speak evil of Him, and whoever is not against Him is for Him and on His side.

To use organization and discipline, though essential, to forbid such workers is a wrong spirit and a departure from the simplicity of the gospel, putting dependence on mere form and ceremony instead of the power of true godliness. The verse warns against prejudice and the danger of condemning or discouraging workers simply because they do not belong to one's own circle or follow its methods. If their life and character are exemplary, they should be left to work in any capacity in their own sphere and be strengthened rather than hindered with even a word of condemnation, although they may not conform exactly to accepted methods. For Christ can work through whomever He chooses.