Jesus’ Name

Today’s Gospel Text:  John said to him, "Teacher, we saw a man casting out demons in your name, and we forbade him, because he was not following us." 39 But Jesus said, "Do not forbid him; for no one who does a mighty work in my name will be able soon after to speak evil of me. 40 For he that is not against us is for us. Mark 9:38-40

Reflection: Reading this passage I am reminded of the following scripture:

"Not every one who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.  On that day many will say to me, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?'  And then will I declare to them, 'I never knew you; depart from me, you evildoers.' Matt 7:21-23

It seems that today’s passage in a contradicts and will remind us that not to forbid a person who does a mighty work in Jesus’ name.

Is there is contradiction in the two passages of scripture or is there a greater message for the servants of the gospel? 

A close glance shows that the two scripture passages are compatible with each other.

In the Matthean text above we clearly see that the message is a warning to all those who would be performing signs in the name of Jesus. Yet it does not seem to communicate that those who perform those signs will be condemned.  What is important is to do the will of the Father, who is in heaven.

The above text communicates to us that it is possible to do mighty works in the name of Jesus, without knowing Jesus too well but at the same time it also communicates to us this; in the process of serving in the name of Jesus if we do not get converted to him then we are doomed.

In other words, if we do not recognize the reason beyond the power and do not submit to the Lord our will and do not give him the glory that is due his name then we are walking a wrong path. 

Prayer: Lord our God, as we serve you may we never depart from your commandments and put our trust completely in you and seek your glory in all things.

DD = Dedicated Discipleship:  Come grow in the Lord with us