MPV Commentary

Read the modernized Jamieson-Fausset-Brown commentary, aligned with each Bible book and chapter, in clear, updated English.

Currently viewing commentary for Luke 9

Sections for Luke 9
Lu 9:1-6 Mission of the Twelve Apostles.
Lu 9:7-9 Herod Troubled at What He Hears of Christ Desires to See Him.
Lu 9:10-17 On the Return of the Twelve Jesus Retires with Them to
Lu 9:18-27 Peter's Confession of Christ--Our Lord's First Explicit
Lu 9:28-36 Jesus Transfigured.
Lu 9:37-45 Demoniac and Lunatic Boy Healed--Christ's Second Explicit
Lu 9:46-48 Strife among the Twelve Who Should Be Greatest--John
Lu 9:51-56 The Period of His Assumption Approaching Christ Takes His
Lu 9:57-62 Incidents Illustrative of Discipleship.
Lu 9:46-48 Strife among the Twelve Who Should Be Greatest--John

Strife among the Twelve Who Should Be Greatest--John

The disciples were rebuked for their exclusiveness.

46-48. (See on Mt 18:1-5).

49, 50. John answered, "We saw someone casting out demons in your name, and we forbade him. Were we wrong?" Jesus replied, "You were wrong." "But we did it because he doesn't follow us," John said. Jesus responded, "No matter. There is no one who performs a miracle in my name that can quickly speak evil of me. And if someone does miracles in my name, you should consider them to be on our side."

Two crucial principles are taught here. Jesus is not saying this person shouldn't have followed the disciples, but rather how they were to regard him as a promoter of his cause. This teaching condemns attempts to shut up all within one visible group of followers by force, which has led to bloodshed in Christ's name throughout history. It also rejects the proud attitude of those who scowl upon others who worship God in their own way.

Visible unity in Christ's Church is desirable, but it should not be pursued at the expense of excluding others. This is evident from Moses' noble spirit (Nu 11:24-29).