And John answered and said, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and we forbad him, because he followed not with us. And Jesus said unto him, Forbid him not, for he that is not against us is for us. Luke 9:49-50
We all like to hear a good Gospel message. And we probably have our favourite Gospel preachers, even among the local brethren who take part in the regular Sunday night meeting in our own Hall. We give thanks for the clear, plain message that we hear, and rejoice that God is able to use the preaching of the cross to save souls. We even make a point of noting when the Gospel is preached at a funeral or a wedding in a denominational setting. This is cause for thanksgiving. But how do we feel about the Gospel efforts among groups outside of our own circle of fellowship? Do we resent their intrusion and question their techniques? Or do we welcome their efforts to reach the lost?
The disciples had a valid concern about the person who was acting in Jesus’ name to cast out demons. This man was not following with them, so he was not receiving the teaching and other instructions from the Lord Jesus. He could very well be off-base on some of his doctrine, and he was probably not following the procedures exactly as the disciples had been taught. It was important, they felt, to make sure nobody was being led astray. How surprised they must have been at Jesus’ rebuke.
Who else beside the folks from our Gospel Halls preach the Gospel? Really, we don’t know. We look at some of the denominations, and can tell instantly that they have no knowledge of the truth. Some have no respect for the Scriptures and no message other than social fluff. But there are some groups where the man who occupies the pulpit reads the Scriptures and preaches faithfully from them. Despite errors in some areas, these men preach the Gospel, some as clearly and as powerfully as it might be heard in any Gospel Hall. What should our attitude be toward such men?
Jesus said to not forbid such men from their efforts. If these men are seeing souls saved, these are souls that would not have heard the Gospel from us in any case. But they are hearing it, and they will not be in hell. Is that not the most important consideration? No, we should not follow such men, any more than the disciples would leave Jesus to follow the man they spoke about. But we might well pray that their efforts will result in precious fruit for Christ.
Be thankful for all who preach the Gospel, regardless of where they meet or what form they follow. Pray that God will use their words for His glory. -Jim MacIntosh