
Come Join Our Army!
by Colonel Richard Munn
“Teacher,” said John, “we saw someone driving out demons in your name and we told him to stop, because he was not one of us.”
“Do not stop him,” Jesus said. (Mark 9:38–39)
Those familiar with Salvation Army history will know that following the evangelistic efforts of William Booth in London’s East End, new converts — rough and ready characters — were directed to the established churches of the day. Feeling uncomfortable there, however, they promptly returned en masse to Booth and company to continue with the ministry that had so impacted them, and where they felt at home.
At that time the order of the day was unorthodoxy. As a matter of principle and as a strategy of evangelism, even, the more outrageous the better. The mission was to wake up a sleeping church, attract the attention of the public by any means possible, and then press home the claims of the gospel.
The effect was to form a cast of larger-than-life personalities who found a new outlet and a divine cause for their prodigious energies. God used it all in a powerful way to extend His kingdom.
Unsurprisingly, such an uncommon ministry drew withering criticism. While new converts were singing “Come join our Army, to battle we go,” others were rebuking this maverick church. The Salvation Army was often ridiculed. Only much later did acceptance come.
The propensity for some parts of the body of Christ to reject other parts has been around as long as the earthly ministry of Christ Himself. If ever there was a group of individuals who could justifiably think of themselves as having positions of special influence and authority, it was the original disciples. They had been handpicked by Jesus. So, we can imagine their surprise upon coming across an “outsider” demonstrating effective ministry.
“Because he was not one of us,” blusters John, “we told him to stop.”
“Do not stop him,” counters Jesus.
Out of insecurity came the rebuke to stop the one whose success was encroaching on their special status.
The lesson for us, of course, is that when we become self-obsessed, we can overlook the work of God. So, we have to make space for the unpolished novices and others who may not be one of us, and who deploy different methods, but who serve in the name of Christ.
The broad principle laid down by Christ (Mark 9:40) is simple: “Whoever is not against us is for us.” Fledgling steps of spiritual leadership are to be embraced and encouraged.
With an expansive vision of the kingdom of God, we can rejoice in who and what God has called us to be, and simultaneously become more accepting with those who are new in Christ and embarking in ministry and leadership.
Lord, free us from prejudice, and liberate us to encourage new ministries and new leaders. Then by Your grace we can truly sing: “Come join our Army!”