Introduction: In Mark 9, we read the account of Jesus teaching about what it means to be a good and godly representative of the message with which Christians are entrusted. We’re to be good stewards. We’re to be men and women of quality character.

Text: John said to him, “Teacher, we saw someone casting out demons in your name, and we tried to stop him, because he was not following us.” But Jesus said, “Do not stop him, for no one who does a mighty work in my name will be able soon afterward to speak evil of me. For the one who is not against us is for us. For truly, I say to you, whoever gives you a cup of water to drink because you belong to Christ will by no means lose his reward.

“Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him if a great millstone were hung around his neck and he were thrown into the sea. . .” (Mk 9:38-42, ESV)

Teaching: This is striking language from Jesus. To have a millstone hung about the neck meant death. That’s the image. In other words, don’t be a stumbling block to other people by perverting your testimony.

Encouragement: We have the highest of callings. We’re to be good and godly stewards. We’re to adorn the gospel via our lives. We’re to represent our Commander well.