Mark 9:40

A common misinterpretation twists this to endorse indiscriminate ecumenism, suggesting all faiths or good deeds are equally valid allies regardless of doctrinal fidelity or true allegiance to Christ, ignoring biblical calls for discernment against false teachers; others reverse it to justify opposition to all outsiders, missing Jesus' point against petty tribalism while upholding orthodoxy.

Jesus corrects the disciples' narrow exclusivity by teaching that someone performing miracles in his name, even if not part of their group, should not be forbidden, as neutrality toward the cause—neither following nor opposing—aligns with it; this promotes unity in the kingdom of God, recognizing that God's work extends beyond one's immediate circle and discouraging sectarian jealousy.