Luke 9:46-50
Chapter 9
46
One day, the disciples were arguing about which of them was the most important.
47
But Jesus knew their thoughts, so he took a little child and stood him by his side.
48
Then he said to them:
“Whoever welcomes this little child in my name, welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me, welcomes the one who sent me. And listen: the one who is found to be the least among you all is the one who is the greatest.”
49
Then John spoke up:
“Master, we saw someone who drives out demons by calling upon your name, and we tried to forbid him because he doesn’t follow you with us.”
50
But Jesus said:
“Don’t forbid him. He who is not against you is for you.”
Commentaries
Who Is the Greatest? – The Anonymous Exorcist.
This passage highlights two key instructions. The first concerns understanding the kingdom. The disciples have understood nothing of Jesus’ teachings nor grasped the true nature and dynamics of the kingdom, as they still rely on titles, social status, and bureaucratic roles. The second instruction pertains to those who preached and performed signs in Jesus’ name. Jesus’ criterion is clear and straightforward: “do not stop them” (50). God, his love, his mercy, and his fatherhood are greater than any group or community, regardless of denomination.