The Life of Christ

SECTION 127

Mk. 9:33-34 And they came to Capernaum; and when He was in the house, He began to question them, “What were you discussing on the way?” 34 But they kept silent, for on the way they had discussed with one another which of them was the greatest.

This episode takes place shortly after the return from the Mt. of Transfiguration.

• It’s possible that Peter, James, and John were just itching to release some clue of their exclusive moment with Jesus.

• While basking with Jesus, Moses, and Elijah, the other nine were left bumbling their way through a botched exorcism.

Mk. 9:35-37 And sitting down, He called the twelve and said to them, “If anyone wants to be first, he shall be last of all, and servant of all.” 36 And taking a child, He set him before them, and taking him in His arms, He said to them, 37 “Whoever receives one child like this in My name receives Me; and whoever receives Me does not receive Me, but Him who sent Me.”

To minister to a small child doesn’t seem as spiritual as talking with Moses or Elijah, but God doesn’t view things the same as man.

SECTION 128

Mk. 9:38-39 John said to Him, “Teacher, we saw someone casting out demons in Your name, and we tried to hinder him because he was not following us.” 39 But Jesus said, “Do not hinder him, for there is no one who shall perform a miracle in My name, and be able soon afterward to speak evil of Me.”

Apparently, this suspicious exorcism was successful, creating a significant “first” in the Gospels.

• For the first time, a miracle is performed without the specific authorization of Jesus; belief in His name served as the only prerequisite.

• This revelation is new, and not only caught the disciples off guard, but challenged their attitude of exclusiveness.

• On a broader scope, it addressed all future generations tempted to think that God works exclusively in their camp.

Mk. 9:42 “And whoever causes one of these little ones who believe to stumble, it would be better for him if, with a heavy millstone hung around his neck, he had been cast into the sea.”

There is much in the Bible about not causing another believer to stumble.

• 1 Cor. 8 exhorts us to give up our legitimate Christian liberties if there is the slightest chance it may cause another believer to stumble.

• In 1 Cor. 9:12 Paul refused to take financial assistance from the young Corinthian Church, fearing it might cause them to stumble in their faith.

• In 1 Cor. 9:4 Paul would refuse to drink wine for the same reason.

205