Jesus rewards cup of cold water

JESUS WAS REWARDING A CUP OF COLD WATER
EDITED BY GLENN PEASE
Mark 9:41 41Truly I tell you, anyone who gives you a
cup of water in my name because you belong to the
Messiahwill certainly not lose their reward.
BIBLEHUB RESOURCES
Christian Beneficence
Mark 9:41
A. Rowland
Loving considerationfor others and generous kindness to them are among the
fruits of the Spirit and the signs of true discipleship. Their effects it would not
be easyto exaggerate.The law of kindness for Jesus'sake is of all things the
most likely to remove prejudices againstChristianity, and to bring together
those whose interests are separate, so as to ensure the salvationof society.
Even on lowergrounds, therefore, this law demands our obedience, for there
is much in our socialcondition to cause anxiety to the Church. Questions once
carefully ignored are being boldly discussed;classesofmen whose ignorance
and poverty made them political nonentities are now powers in the State.
Capitalists and producers are discussing anew their respective rights; owners
of land are being openly askedwhetherShe proportion they have receivedof
its value is not greaterthan their due. And in all these movements agitators

are exaggerating claims, some ofwhich have in them germs of right.
Meanwhile it is to be fearedthat religion, as a factorin the settlement of such
disputes, is being disregarded, and debate is rife whether indeed the Christian
faith is longer credible. Anything which would suddenly change the relations
of various classes, anyoutburst of the communistic or nihilistic spirit, would
bring about far more evil than good. Evils must be abolished now as they were
in the early days of the Christian faith. When slaves were held in cruel
bondage, and profligacyassumedhideous forms, and accumulatedwealth
appearedside by side with abject want, Christ and the teachers who followed
him arousedno servile war, but by word and life showeda more excellent
way. They taught that the highestbliss was not in abundance of possessions,
but in abundance of spiritual life; that the loftiest dignity was to be found not
in the indulgence, but in the denial, of self; that all a man possessedhe held as
a responsible steward;and that those removed from others in socialposition
were brothers and sisters to be caredfor. All this was exhibited in the life of
One who went about doing good, and was seenin its ultimate victory on the
cross where Christ died for us, that we henceforth might live no morn to
ourselves. One phase of this law of kindness is brought before us in our text,
where its manifestationis recognizedas a germ of discipleship.
I. THE DUTY OF CHRISTIAN BENEFICENCEis assertedthroughout
Scripture. Under the old dispensation, the blessedness ofhim who considers
the poor was exemplified in the experience of Job, and of the widow of
Sarepta, and of multitudes besides. The duty was made still more clearin the
New Testament;and this is noteworthy, because the disciples of our Lord
were themselves poor, so that no one of them could give out of his
superabundance; and even of our Lord himself this was true, though he so
often showedthat it was more blessedto give than to receive. On this principle
the Church acted. SpontaneouslyBarnabas sold his estates to aid those who
were in specialdifficulties because theywere castout of trade and home, and
his example was contagious. There was no law passedthat Christians should
do this; but though as a compulsory law it would have been an unsound
dictum for all times, it was right and goodwhen Christians, moved by pity for
their poor persecutedbrethren, distributed as every man had need.

Spontaneity gives worth to such acts. He who thus gives, though it be but a
cup of cold water, shall not lose his reward.
II. THE OBJECTSOF CHRISTIAN BENEFICENCE.All less favoredthan
ourselves have a claim, not necessarilyon our money, but on our help and
sympathy, in some form, when an opportunity comes for service in Christ's
Name.
1. Human relationship has its claims on us, and he who does not "provide for
his own," eventhough he benefits some religious organization, fails in his duty
to his Lord.
2. Neighbourhoodhas claims on us. No followerof Christ canbe like the rich
man, who would give alms to be seenof man, but would let poor Lazarus die
at his gate, fighting for crumbs with the dogs.
3. Fellowshipin the same Church has claims on us, though those needing our
aid may be leastin knowledge, leastin capacity, leastin attractiveness,orleast
in desert.
4. But we are to do goodunto all men, though especiallyto such as are of the
household of faith. Christ died for all, and in his Name, for his sake, in his
spirit, we must seek to aid them, even though it only be by a cup of cold water.
III. THE REASONS FOR CHRISTIAN BENEFICENCE are numerous, but
we may mention one or two.

1. All we have is from God. His providence has made us to differ. Our birth,
our inheritance, our education, our natural capacities, - these are in no sense
the results of our own creationor choice. He who gave us these, demands that
we should use them in part to promote the peace and the comfort of those for
whom his Son died. "Freelyye have received, freely give."
2. Our superabundance is for others. When our cup runs over, the droppings
are not for ourselves but for others. When our harvest is gathered, room must
be made for gleaners as wellas for reapers. Waste is againstGod's law. The
breath we throw off from our lungs is wanted by nature. The rain poured
down so lavishly is not lost. The refuse flung on the soil is to reappearin new
forms. All nature rebukes the waste and extravaganceofwhich we are often
guilty; and Ambrose has well said, "It is no greatersin to take from him that
rightly possesseththan being able not to give to him that wanteth." - A.R.
Biblical Illustrator
A cup of waterto drink in My name.

Mark 9:41
The smallestgift and the largestreward
J. Alexander.
I. THE DESCRIPTIONwhich is here given of the disciples of Christ, is
exceedinglyinteresting and instructive. They "belong" to Christ; they are
peculiarly and emphatically His; speaking ofthem, he calls them "My sheep,"
"My people," "My disciples;" and addressing His heavenly Fatherrespecting
them, He says, "All Mine are Thine, and Thine are Mine; and I am glorified
in them." And the Scriptures, which thus representChristians as the property
of Christ, teach us also the way in which they become so entirely His. It is
evident from Christ's own language, thatHis disciples belong to Him
primarily by the gift of His Father. "Thine they were," says He, "and Thou
gavestthem Me. My Father which gave them to Me, is greaterthan all. All
that the Father hath given to Me shall come to Me." And if they thus belong to
Christ by His receptionof them from the Father, and by His redemption of
them by His blood, they are also His by their ownvoluntary dedication of
themselves to Him, as the result of His electing and redeeming mercy.
II. THE GIFT which Jesus Christasks on behalf of these His disciples, is a
cup of water. When we considerbelievers as belonging so peculiarly to Christ,
we might suppose that He would solicitfor them the most costlyand
munificent donations that the most wealthy could bestow;but it is a
remarkable and an interesting fact, that He never either sought greatthings
for Himself, or led His disciples to expectgreat things from others. An
impostor, or a mere enthusiast, would in all probability have acteddifferently,
and have said to his disciples, "Whosoevershallgive you thousands of gold
and silver; whosoevershallexalt you to worldly dignity and honour; and
whosoevershallclothe you in purple and fine linen, and cause you to fare
sumptuously every day;" — but His language was, "Whosoevershallgive you
a cup of waterto drink." And let not such a gift, small as it is, be despised. In
our circumstances,we are mercifully unable to estimate its worth; but a man
may be brought into such a situation that even a cup of waterwould be the
most valuable and acceptable presentthat he could receive. When Samson

had slain, single-handed, a thousand of his Philistine foes, he cried unto the
Lord and said, "I die for thirst." But when a little waterwas procured, "his
spirit came again, and he revived." The smallness of the gift which Christ
solicits in our text, may, however, suitably admonish His disciples to be
satisfiedwith little.
III. THE MOTIVE by which you should be influenced in the bestowmentof
this gift, seems to include both love to Christ and to His disciples;for, says He,
"whosoevershallgive you a cup of waterto drink in My name, and because ye
belong to Christ." Such is the deceit fulness and desperate wickedness ofthe
human heart, that an actionproductive of goodto others may be done merely
for the purpose of thereby accomplishing some selfish and unhallowed object,
merely because theyare following with you, and adhering to the sector party
to which you belong. But, to return to the considerationofthe motives by
which our gifts are to be influenced — the greatestandthe purest is love to
Christ. To Him we are laid under unspeakable obligations forthe love with
which He loved us, when He died for our sins, and to secure the complete and
eternal salvationof our souls. Love to Christ cannot exist, however, without
love to Christians, who belong to Christ, and who bear His image;"for
everyone that loveth Him that begat, loveth them also that are begottenof
Him."
IV. The reward by which the bestowerofthis gift will be honoured and
enriched is securedto him by the Saviour's faithful promise, "Verily I say
unto you, he shall not lose his reward."
1. He shall be rewardedby the pleasurable feelings which the exercise of
benevolence and kindness to others never fails to produce.

2. He shall be rewardedwith the prayers, and blessings, andsympathy of the
disciple on whom he has bestowedthe gift.
3. He shall be rewardedwith the approbation and blessing of Christ Himself.
(J. Alexander.)
A cup of water
Faber.
There is something very economicalaboutthe generosityof kindness;a little
goes a long way.
(Faber.)
A right motive
It is said that when Andrew Fuller went into his native town to collectfor the
cause ofmissions, one of his old acquaintances said, "Well, Andrew, I'll give
five pounds, seeing it's you. No," saidMr. Fuller, I can take nothing for this
cause, seeing it's me: — and handed the money back. The man felt reproved,
but in a moment he said, "Andrew, you are right. Here are ten pounds, seeing
it is for the Lord Jesus Christ."
An act, a motive, and a reward
G. W. Samson, D. D.
Here is an act, a motive, and a reward, calling for thought. As to the act, it is
both suggestive andcomprehensive. A man may live without food for many
days; but he cannot exist without waterfor the body's cooling and circulating
fluids. So there is a moral life that is keptup by the interchange of little acts;
the kind salutation, the smile, the "kiss ofcharity," the word "fitly spoken

and in season,"whichcostnothing to the giver, but are invaluable to the
receiver. So the little acts of giving, the "mites" of poor widows, the full
carrying out of Paul's universal appointment, "let every one of you lay by him
in store as the Lord hath prospered him" — it is these gathereddrops that fill
the exhaustless reservoirsofworldwide Christian charities. The motive, too,
like that which sees in a child the lineaments of an esteemedparent, that
recognizes in the livery the servant of a liege lord, it is this recognitionof
Christ in His disciple that at once honours the Master, and which permits
Him to honour the service. The reward, too, is in keeping with the act and its
motive. The little badge a prince bestows is more than a life estate. To find
true what Jesus declares shortlyafter (Matthew 25), that the rewards of the
final judgment turn on these little acts and their motive, that Jesus will sayof
forgottentrifles, "Ye did it to Me," the realization of this fact, so as to make it
the rule of everyday life — this is to learn the lessonofgiving a "cup of cold
water" in the name of Christ.
(G. W. Samson, D. D.)
Give in Christ's name -- humanity not Christianity
Frank Hope.
"Thatman has given more to the poor than any man in the town; now that's
what I call being a noble Christian," is the remark that a friend made a few
days ago. This is also a sample of the opinion of quite a large class ofpeople;
they hold that because a man is benevolenthe must naturally be a Christian;
but this does not necessarilyfollow. A man may love the poor, sympathize
with those in distress, and in the fulness of his heart relieve the wants of the
pauper, and yet not be a Christian. He gives for humanity's sake, while the
Christian gives only for Christ's sake. Humanity must not be mistakenfor
Christianity. Many noted highwaymen have given largely to the poor out of
what they robbed from the rich. That they possessedhumanity no one will
doubt, but there was not a particle of Christianity about them. The virtue in
humanity's gift lies in the amount given, but the test in Christianity's gift lies
in the amount that's left behind; and while humanity rejoices in having given

so much, Christianity will weepbecause she has no more to give. The gift for
humanity's sake is good, but to give for Christ's sake is better. The Pharisee
who ostentatiouslycastin of his abundance pales into insignificance before the
poor widow who castin her all. Says Christ: "Forthe poor always ye have
with you; but Me ye have not always." Christfirst, the poor afterward. Had
Mary given the money to the poor, she would have done well, but in that she
gave it to Christ she did better. Had she given for humanity's sake, three
hundred souls would eachhave the temporal satisfactionof a pennyworth of
bread; but in that she did it for Christ's sake millions have been cheeredand
encouragedwhile reading of her devotion and tenderness of Christ. This is all
expressedby Paul in a single sentence:"ThoughI bestow all my goods to feed
the poor...andhave not charity, I am nothing." To feedthe poor is humanity,
but charity is Christianity. Humanity is transitory and passes away.
Christianity is eternal, and, like a river, is continually fed by countless tiny
tributaries that, howeversmall and powerless in themselves, all combine to
form one goldencurrent that flows into a far more exceeding and eternal sea
of glory.
(Frank Hope.)
Whose am I
R. Roberts.
"Ye belong to Christ." These thoughts are suggestedby this phrase.
I. PROPRIETORSHIP.There is a sense in which it may be said that all men
belong to Christ.
1. This claim to us is basedprimarily on His Creatorship.
2. All are His by redemption.

3. Baptism is a confirmation of all this.
4. But believers belong to Christ in a more peculiar sense by an act of personal
consecration. In the case ofmany this actof consecrationhas been repeatedly
renewed.
5. Believers are Christ's by adoption. The soulsurrendered all its powers to
Christ, and He graciouslyacceptedthe offering, and smiled upon the oblation.
II. TO BELONG TO CHRIST IMPLIES PRIVILEGE.
1. Specialcare.
2. Identity of interests. If I am Christ's my joys are His joys, my sorrows are
His sorrows.
(1)Things done againstthe saints, Christ regards as done againstHimself.
(2)Things done for the saints Christ regards as done to Himself. The act of
acing goodto you will add to the felicity of the doer forever.
3. Dignity.
III. Belonging to Christ involves RESPONSIBILITY.

1. We are to live for Christ.
2. We are to live like Christ.
3. We are to confess Christ.
(R. Roberts.)
Belonging to Christ
J. S. Bright.
I. THE CONNECTIONWHICH CHRIST CLAIMS WITH HIS PEOPLE.
1. They belong to Him by separationand surrender.
2. They possesssome spiritual worth. There are in Scripture some hints
respecting the Divine estimate of men.
3. They are appointed to high and sacredministries
4. They engage the interest of Christ in their improvement.
5. They enjoy the honour of spiritual association.

II. PRACTICAL SUGGESTIONSFROM THE SUBJECT.
1. The difficulty of holding this truth firmly is seen.
2. It should encourage consistencyofChristian life.
3. It invites us to considerthe personalsigns of connectionwith Christ.
(J. S. Bright.)
COMMENTARIES
Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers
(41) Whosoevershallgive you a cup of water.—SeeNote onMatthew 10:42.
The reproduction of the promise in so different a contextis significantas an
instance of our Lord’s method of teaching, reiterating words of blessing and
of wisdom till they were engraved indelibly on the minds of those who heard
them.
BensonCommentary
Mark 9:41-42. Forwhosoevershallgive you a cup of water, &c. — Having
answeredJohn, our Lord resumes the discourse, whichwas broken off at
Mark 9:37. And to show the apostles further, that they had been in the wrong
to discourage this person, who must have entertained a greatveneration for
their Master, and was in a fair way to become his follower, he told them, that
the lowestdegree ofrespectwhich any one showedhim, though it were but the

giving a cup of cold water to one of his thirsty disciples, would be acceptable
to him, and should not lose its reward: whereas, onthe other hand, the least
discouragementofhis servants in their duty, come from what quarter it
might, should be severelypunished. For he added, Whosoevershalloffend:
και ος αν σκανδαλιση, whosoevershallcause to stumble one of these little ones
— The very leastChristian. It is better for him that a millstone were hanged
about his neck — See note on Matthew 18:5-6.
Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary
9:41-50 It is repeatedly said of the wicked, Their worm dieth not, as well as,
The fire is never quenched. Doubtless, remorse ofconscienceand keenself-
reflectionare this never-dying worm. Surely it is beyond compare better to
undergo all possible pain, hardship, and self-denialhere, and to be happy for
ever hereafter, than to enjoy all kinds of worldly pleasure for a season, and to
be miserable for ever. Like the sacrifices, we must be salted with salt;our
corrupt affections must be subdued and mortified by the Holy Spirit. Those
that have the salt of grace, must show they have a living principle of grace in
their hearts, which works out corrupt dispositions in the soul that would
offend God, or our own consciences.
Barnes'Notes on the Bible
Whosoevershallgive you a cup ... - How easyit is to be a Christian! What is
easierthan to give a cup of cold water to a thirsty disciple of Jesus!But it
must be in his name - that is, because he "is" a Christian, and therefore from
love "to the Saviour." This is very different from giving it from a mere motive
of common kindness. If done from love to Christ, it will be rewarded; and
hence we learn that the humblest acts of Christians - the lowestservice that is
rendered - will be graciouslynoticed by Jesus and rewarded. None are so
humble in his kingdom as not to be able to do good, and none so poor that he
may not show attachment to him. The feeblestservice will be accepted, and
acts of love that may be forgottenby man, will be remembered by Him, and
rewardedin heaven.
Jamieson-Fausset-BrownBible Commentary

41. For whosoevershallgive you a cup of waterto drink in my name, because
ye belong to Christ, verily I sayunto you, he shall not lose his reward—(See
on [1466]Mt10:42).
Continuation of Teaching Suggestedby the Disciples'Strife (Mr 9:42-50).
What follows appears to have no connectionwith the incidental reproof of
John immediately preceding. As that had interrupted some important
teaching, our Lord hastens back from it, as if no such interruption had
occurred.
Matthew Poole's Commentary
We meet with the same in substance, Matthew 10:42:there the phrase is, in
the name of a disciple; here it is expounded, because ye belong to Christ. In
my name; upon my account, believing you have a relation to me.
Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible
For whosoevershallgive you a cup of waterto drink,.... Not only one that does
a miracle in the name of Christ, but he that shows the leastrespect, or does
the leastkindness to any one of his; See Gill on Matthew 10:42; is to be
reckoneda friend, and is so accountedby Christ; and will be sooneror later
takennotice of by him, especially, if what he does, be it ever so little, is done
on his account:
in my name, because ye belong to Christ; or as the Syriac version renders it,
"on accountthat ye are Christ's"; are his disciples, are called by his name, are
partakers of his grace, bearhis image and likeness, are lovedby him,
interestedin him, given to him, redeemed by him calledby his grace, and shall
be with him:
verily l say unto you, he shall not lose his reward; See Gill on Matthew 10:42.

Geneva Study Bible
For whosoevershallgive you a cup of waterto drink in my name, because ye
belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward.
EXEGETICAL(ORIGINAL LANGUAGES)
Meyer's NT Commentary
Mark 9:41. See on Matthew 10:42. There is nothing opposed to the
assumption that Jesus uttered such a saying here also, and generallyon
severaloccasions.
γάρ refers, by way of assigning a reason, to what immediately precedes, in so
far, namely, as the high significance of their position in the world is contained
in ὃς οὐκ ἔστι καθʼ ὑμῶν, ὑπὲρ ὑμῶν ἔστιν. “Forye are such important
persons as the Messiah’s disciples in the world, that he who shows to you the
smallestservice of love,” etc.
ἐν ὀνόματι ὅτι κ.τ.λ.]so that this rendering of service has its impelling reason
in the name, in the characteristicdesignation, that ye are Messiah’s disciples,
i.e. for the sake ofthe name. Comp. Winer, p. 346 f. [E. T. 484]. On εἶναί
τινος, addictum esse alicui, see Bremi, ad Dem. Phil. III. p. 125, 56;Seidler, ad
Eur. El. 1098;Ast, Lex. Plat. I. p. 621.
Expositor's Greek Testament
Mark 9:41 = Matthew 10:42, but a later secondaryform of the saying:
ποτήριονὕδατος for π. ψυχραῦ, and ὅτι Χριστοῦ ἐστέ instead of εἰς ὄν.
μαθητοῦ.
Cambridge Bible for Schools andColleges
41. a cup of water]which all gave readily in those sultry lands.

Bengel's Gnomen
Mark 9:41. Ὃς, who) Jesus, afterthat He has satisfiedthe reverently-
proposeddifficulty felt on the part of John, returns to the former subject.—
γὰρ, for) All things are accepted, wherebyhelp is ministered to you, even the
smallestthings.
[Mark 9:42. καὶ, and) After the reply has been given to John, the former
discourse is continued. So Mark 9:42 coheres with Mark 9:37.—V. g.]—
περίκειται, is hanged about) The presentof the indicative has here an
emphasis.
Pulpit Commentary
Verse 41. - In my name, because ye belong to Christ. The reading adopted in
the RevisedVersionis, ἐν ὀνόματι ὅτι χριστοῦ ἐστέ: literally, in name, that ye
are Christ's; or, because ye are Christ's. The force of this observationseems to
be this: "If he who gives you a cup of waterto drink in my Name, and out of
regard for me, does well, and shall be rewardedof God, much more shall he
be rewarded who casts outdevils in my Name." The disciples are thus taught
that it is contrary to the whole spirit of Christianity to disparage works of
beneficence, orto suggestunworthy motives for them (see 'Speaker's
Commentary,' in loc.).
STUDYLIGHTRESOURCES
Albert Barnes'Notes onthe Whole Bible

Whosoevershallgive you a cup … - How easyit is to be a Christian! What is
easierthan to give a cup of cold water to a thirsty disciple of Jesus!But it
must be in his name - that is, because he “is” a Christian, and therefore from
love “to the Saviour.” This is very different from giving it from a mere motive
of common kindness. If done from love to Christ, it will be rewarded; and
hence we learn that the humblest acts of Christians - the lowestservice that is
rendered - will be graciouslynoticed by Jesus and rewarded. None are so
humble in his kingdom as not to be able to do good, and none so poor that he
may not show attachment to him. The feeblestservice will be accepted, and
acts of love that may be forgottenby man, will be remembered by Him, and
rewardedin heaven.
Copyright Statement
These files are public domain.
Bibliography
Barnes, Albert. "Commentaryon Mark 9:41". "Barnes'Notes onthe Whole
Bible". https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/mark-9.html.
1870.
Return to Jump List return to 'Jump List'
The Biblical Illustrator
Mark 9:41
A cup of waterto drink in My name.
The smallestgift and the largestreward

I. The description which is here given of the disciples of Christ, is exceedingly
interesting and instructive. They “belong” to Christ; they are peculiarly and
emphatically His; speaking of them, he calls them “My sheep,” “Mypeople,”
“My disciples;” and addressing His heavenly Father respecting them, He says,
“All Mine are Thine, and Thine are Mine; and I am glorified in them.” And
the Scriptures, which thus represent Christians as the property of Christ,
teachus also the way in which they become so entirely His. It is evident from
Christ’s own language, that His disciples belong to Him primarily by the gift
of His Father. “Thine they were,” says He, “and Thou gavestthem Me. My
Father which gave them to Me, is greaterthan all. All that the Father hath
given to Me shall come to Me.” And if they thus belong to Christ by His
receptionof them from the Father, and by His redemption of them by His
blood, they are also His by their own voluntary dedicationof themselves to
Him, as the result of His electing and redeeming mercy.
II. The gift which Jesus Christasks on behalf of these His disciples, is a cup of
water. When we considerbelievers as belonging so peculiarly to Christ, we
might suppose that He would solicit for them the most costlyand munificent
donations that the most wealthy could bestow;but it is a remarkable and an
interesting fact, that He never either sought greatthings for Himself, or led
His disciples to expectgreat things from others. An impostor, or a mere
enthusiast, would in all probability have acted differently, and have said to his
disciples, “Whosoevershallgive you thousands of gold and silver; whosoever
shall exalt you to worldly dignity and honour; and whosoevershallclothe you
in purple and fine linen, and cause you to fare sumptuously every day;”-but
His language was, “Whosoevershallgive you a cup of waterto drink.” And let
not such a gift, small as it is, be despised. In our circumstances, we are
mercifully unable to estimate its worth; but a man may be brought into such a
situation that even a cup of waterwould be the most valuable and acceptable

present that he could receive. When Samsonhad slain, single-handed, a
thousand of his Philistine foes, he cried unto the Lord and said, “I die for
thirst.” But when a little waterwas procured, “his spirit came again, and he
revived.” The smallness ofthe gift which Christ solicits in our text, may,
however, suitably admonish His disciples to be satisfiedwith little.
III. The motive by which you should be influenced in the bestowmentof this
gift, seems to include both love to Christ and to His disciples;for, says He,
“whosoevershallgive you a cup of waterto drink in My name, and because ye
belong to Christ.” Such is the deceitfulness and desperate wickedness ofthe
human heart, that an actionproductive of goodto others may be done merely
for the purpose of thereby accomplishing some selfish and unhallowed object,
merely because theyare following with you, and adhering to the sector party
to which you belong. But, to return to the considerationofthe motives by
which our gifts are to be influenced-the greatestand the purest is love to
Christ. To Him we are laid under unspeakable obligations forthe love with
which He loved us, when He died for our sins, and to secure the complete and
eternal salvationof our souls. Love to Christ cannot exist, however, without
love to Christians, who belong to Christ, and who bear His image;“for
everyone that loveth Him that begat, loveth them also that are begottenof
Him.”
IV. The reward by which the bestowerofthis gift will be honoured and
enriched is securedto him by the Saviour’s faithful promise, “Verily I say
unto you, he shall not lose his reward.”
1. He shall be rewardedby the pleasurable feelings which the exercise of
benevolence and kindness to others never fails to produce.

2. He shall be rewardedwith the prayers, and blessings, andsympathy of the
disciple on whom he has bestowedthe gift.
3. He shall be rewardedwith the approbation and blessing of Christ Himself.
(J. Alexander.)
A cup of water
There is something very economicalaboutthe generosityof kindness;a little
goes a long way. (Faber.)
A right motive
It is said that when Andrew Fuller went into his native town to collectfor the
cause ofmissions, one of his old acquaintances said, “Well, Andrew, I’ll give
five pounds, seeing it’s you.” “No,” saidMr. Fuller, I can take nothing for this
cause, seeing it’s me:-and handed the money back. The man felt reproved, but
in a moment he said, “Andrew, you are right. Here are ten pounds, seeing it is
for the Lord Jesus Christ.”
An act, a motive, and a reward
Here is an act, a motive, and a reward, calling for thought. As to the act, it is
both suggestive andcomprehensive. A man may live without food for many
days; but he cannot exist without waterfor the body’s cooling and circulating
fluids. So there is a moral life that is keptup by the interchange of little acts;

the kind salutation, the smile, the “kiss ofcharity,” the word “fitly spokenand
in season,”whichcostnothing to the giver, but are invaluable to the receiver.
So the little acts of giving, the “mites” of poor widows, the full carrying out of
Paul’s universal appointment, “let every one of you lay by him in store as the
Lord hath prospered him”-it is these gathereddrops that fill the exhaustless
reservoirs of worldwide Christian charities. The motive, too, like that which
sees in a child the lineaments of an esteemedparent, that recognizes in the
livery the servant of a liege lord, it is this recognitionof Christ in His disciple
that at once honours the Master, and which permits Him to honour the
service. The reward, too, is in keeping with the actand its motive. The little
badge a prince bestows is more than a life estate. To find true what Jesus
declares shortly after (Matthew 25:1-46), that the rewards of the final
judgment turn on these little acts and their motive, that Jesus will sayof
forgottentrifles, “Ye did it to Me,” the realization of this fact, so as to make it
the rule of everyday life-this is to learn the lessonofgiving a “cup of cold
water” in the name of Christ. (G. W. Samson, D. D.)
Give in Christ’s name-humanity not Christianity
“Thatman has given more to the poor than any man in the town; now that’s
what I call being a noble Christian,” is the remark that a friend made a few
days ago. This is also a sample of the opinion of quite a large class ofpeople;
they hold that because a man is benevolenthe must naturally be a Christian;
but this does not necessarilyfollow. A man may love the poor, sympathize
with those in distress, and in the fulness of his heart relieve the wants of the
pauper, and yet not be a Christian. He gives for humanity’s sake, while the
Christian gives only for Christ’s sake. Humanity must not be mistaken for
Christianity. Many noted highwaymen have given largely to the poor out of
what they robbed from the rich. That they possessedhumanity no one will
doubt, but there was not a particle of Christianity about them. The virtue in
humanity’s gift lies in the amount given, but the test in Christianity’s gift lies
in the amount that’s left behind; and while humanity rejoices in having given

so much, Christianity will weepbecause she has no more to give. The gift for
humanity’s sake is good, but to give for Christ’s sake is better. The Pharisee
who ostentatiouslycastin of his abundance pales into insignificance before the
poor widow who castin her all. Says Christ: “Forthe poor always ye have
with you; but Me ye have not always.” Christfirst, the poor afterward. Had
Mary given the money to the poor, she would have done well, but in that she
gave it to Christ she did better. Had she given for humanity’s sake, three
hundred souls would eachhave the temporal satisfactionof a pennyworth of
bread; but in that she did it for Christ’s sake millions have been cheeredand
encouragedwhile reading of her devotion and tenderness of Christ. This is all
expressedby Paul in a single sentence:“ThoughI bestow all my goods to feed
the poor … and have not charity, I am nothing.” To feedthe poor is
humanity, but charity is Christianity. Humanity is transitory and passes
away. Christianity is eternal, and, like a river, is continually fed by countless
tiny tributaries that, howeversmall and powerless in themselves, all combine
to form one golden current that flows into a far more exceeding and eternal
sea of glory. (Frank Hope.)
Whose am I
“Ye belong to Christ.” These thoughts are suggestedby this phrase.
I. Proprietorship. There is a sense in which it may be said that all men belong
to Christ.
1. This claim to us is basedprimarily on His Creatorship.
2. All are His by redemption.

3. Baptism is a confirmation of all this.
4. But believers belong to Christ in a more peculiar sense by an act of personal
consecration. In the case ofmany this actof consecrationhas been repeatedly
renewed.
5. Believers are Christ’s by adoption. The soulsurrendered all its powers to
Christ, and He graciouslyacceptedthe offering, and smiled upon the oblation.
II. To belong to Christ implies privilege.
1. Specialcare.
2. Identity of interests. If I am Christ’s my joys are His joys, my sorrows are
His sorrows.
3. Dignity.
III. Belonging to Christ involves responsibility.
1. We are to live for Christ.

2. We are to live like Christ.
3. We are to confess Christ. (R. Roberts.)
Belonging to Christ
I. The connectionwhich Christ claims with His people.
1. They belong to Him by separationand surrender.
2. They possesssome spiritual worth. There are in Scripture some hints
respecting the Divine estimate of men.
3. They are appointed to high and sacredministries
4. They engage the interest of Christ in their improvement.
5. They enjoy the honour of spiritual association.
II. Practicalsuggestionsfrom the subject.

1. The difficulty of holding this truth firmly is seen.
2. It should encourage consistencyofChristian life.
3. It invites us to considerthe personalsigns of connectionwith Christ. (J. S.
Bright.)
Copyright Statement
Text Courtesyof BibleSupport.com. Used by Permission.
Bibliography
Exell, JosephS. "Commentary on "Mark 9:41". The Biblical Illustrator.
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/tbi/mark-9.html. 1905-1909.
New York.
Coffman's Commentaries on the Bible
For whosoevershallgive you a cup of waterto drink, because ye are Christ's,
verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward.
The totality of humanity belongs to God: and the divine purpose condescends
to acceptany human aid of that purpose, affirming the certainty that every
gracious actshall receive its due reward.

Copyright Statement
James Burton Coffman Commentaries reproduced by permission of Abilene
Christian University Press, Abilene, Texas, USA. All other rights reserved.
Bibliography
Coffman, James Burton. "Commentary on Mark 9:41". "Coffman
Commentaries on the Old and New Testament".
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bcc/mark-9.html. Abilene
Christian University Press, Abilene, Texas, USA. 1983-1999.
John Gill's Exposition of the Whole Bible
on his account:
be with him:

Copyright Statement
The New John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible Modernisedand adapted
for the computer by Larry Pierce of Online Bible. All Rightes Reserved,
Larry Pierce, Winterbourne, Ontario.
A printed copy of this work can be ordered from: The Baptist Standard
Bearer, 1 Iron Oaks Dr, Paris, AR, 72855
Bibliography
Gill, John. "Commentary on Mark 9:41". "The New John Gill Expositionof
the Entire Bible". https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/geb/mark-
9.html. 1999.
Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible
belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward — (See on
Matthew 10:42).
Copyright Statement
These files are a derivative of an electronic edition prepared from text
scannedby Woodside Bible Fellowship.
This expanded edition of the Jameison-Faussett-BrownCommentary is in the
public domain and may be freely used and distributed.
Bibliography

Jamieson, Robert, D.D.;Fausset,A. R.; Brown, David. "Commentary on
Mark 9:41". "Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible".
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/jfb/mark-9.html. 1871-8.
Robertson's WordPictures in the New Testament
Becauseye are Christ‘s (hoti Christou este). Predicate genitive, belong to
Christ. See Romans 8:9; 1 Corinthians 1:12; 2 Corinthians 10:7. That is the
bond of universal brotherhood of the redeemed. It breaks over the lines of
nation, race, class, sex, everything. No service is too small, even a cup of cold
water, if done for Christ‘s sake. Seenote on Matthew 18:6. for discussionon
stumbling-blocks for these little ones that believe on Jesus (Mark 9:42), a
loving term of all believers, not just children.
Copyright Statement
The Robertson's WordPictures of the New Testament. Copyright �
Broadman Press 1932,33,Renewal1960. All rights reserved. Used by
permission of Broadman Press (Southern BaptistSunday SchoolBoard)
Bibliography
Robertson, A.T. "Commentary on Mark 9:41". "Robertson's WordPictures
of the New Testament".
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/rwp/mark-9.html. Broadman
Press 1932,33. Renewal1960.
Wesley's ExplanatoryNotes

For whosoevershallgive you a cup — Having answeredSt. John, our Lord
here resumes the discourse whichwas broken off at the37th verse. Mark 9:37;
Matthew 10:42.
Copyright Statement
These files are public domain and are a derivative of an electronic edition that
is available on the Christian ClassicsEtherealLibrary Website.
Bibliography
Wesley, John. "Commentary on Mark 9:41". "JohnWesley's Explanatory
Notes on the Whole Bible".
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/wen/mark-9.html. 1765.
The Fourfold Gospel
verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward1.
verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward. Jesus here returns to
the discussionofgreatness, andreasserts the doctrine that the smallestact of
righteousness, ifperformed for the sake ofthe King, shall be honored in the
kingdom. For comment, see .
Copyright Statement

These files are public domain and are a derivative of an electronic edition that
is available on the Christian ClassicsEtherealLibrary Website. These files
were made available by Mr. Ernie Stefanik. First published online in 1996 at
The RestorationMovementPages.
Bibliography
J. W. McGarveyand Philip Y. Pendleton. "Commentaryon Mark 9:41".
"The Fourfold Gospel".
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/tfg/mark-9.html. Standard
Publishing Company, Cincinnati, Ohio. 1914.
James Nisbet's Church Pulpit Commentary
‘WHOSE I AM’
‘Ye belong to Christ.’
Mark 9:41
Who are they who belong to Christ?
I. Those who come to Christ.—So the Saviour said: ‘All that the Fathergiveth
Me shall come to Me’ (John 6:37). You are invited to come just as you are.
Are you young? ‘They enter the narrow way easiestwho enter earliest.’
Nothing is more delightful than to see a girl sitting where Mary sat, at the feet
of Jesus—orto see a boy leaning where John leaned, on the breastof Jesus.
Are you middle-aged? Victor Hugo said forty was the old age ofyouth and

fifty the youth of old age. Now is the time to come to Christ, before the
shadows ofevening are stretchedout, before the harvest is past, before the
summer is ended. Are you old? Then come, ere the fading years are all gone,
ere the falling fire has quite died out. For coming to Christ and believing in
Him are the same thing—‘He that cometh to Me shall never hunger; and he
that believeth on Me shall never thirst’ (John 6:35).
II. Those who follow Christ.—If we are sincere followers ofJesus Christ we
shall be willing to suffer for His sake. Thatis to say, if Christ and our own
worldly interests clashand come into conflict we shall follow Christ at all
costs. We shallput Christ first and be willing to part with everything rather
than part with Him.
III. Those who long to see Him.—I think it was Samuel Rutherford who said:
‘His absence is like a mountain upon my heavy heart—O, when shall we
meet?’ This longing to see Him is a third mark of belonging to Him. Only
those who love Him want to see Him. ‘If I have had pleasantand profitable
correspondence foryears with one whom I have not seen, but who is knownto
me by his wisdom and kindness; if he has done me more goodthan all the men
whom I have seen, taught me, helped me, and stamped the impression of
himself on my mind and heart; do I not long to see him face to face, and
eagerlywait for a day when I may be nearer to him who has become
indispensable to me, the very life of my life? Surely it is so betweenChristians
and Christ.’
Rev. F. Harper.
Illustrations

(1) ‘A young man of scepticaltendencies in the EastEnd of London said: “I
like this Jesus of yours, but what I cannotunderstand is that those who
profess to be His followers aren’t a bit like Him.” In some cases this is true.’
(2) ‘Some of you remember Shakespeare’s wonderfulstory of the lady who
was soughtin marriage by many suitors. To test them, her father had made
three caskets—one ofgold, one of silver, and one of lead—and in one of the
casketsthe lady’s picture was placed. Each caskethad a motto. On the gold
one, this: “Who choosethme shall gain what many men desire.” On the silver
one, this: “Who choosethme shall get as much as he deserves.” Buton the
lead one, this: “Who choosethme must give and hazard all he hath.” The gold
and silver casketsspokeofgetting; the lead casketspoke ofgiving. He who
gave most gained most, for the lady’s picture was in the casketthatbade a
man give and hazard all he hath.’
(3) ‘The first question in the Heidelberg Catechismis: ‘What is thy only
comfort in life and in death?” And the answer, “ThatI, with body and soul,
both in life and in death, am not my own, but belong to my faithful Saviour
Jesus Christ, Who with His precious Blood has fully satisfiedfor all my sins,
and redeemedme from all the powerof the devil; and so preserves me that,
without the will of my Father in heaven, not a hair canfall from my head; yea,
that all things must work togetherfor my salvation. Wherefore, by His Holy
Spirit, He also assures me of eternallife, and makes me heartily willing and
ready henceforth to live unto Him.” To put it in fewer words:“What is thy
only comfort in life and in death?” Happy are they that with simple faith can
answer—“ThatI … belong to … Christ.”’
(SECOND OUTLINE)
NOT YOUR OWN

There are three thoughts suggestedby this text: Proprietorship—Privilege—
Responsibility.
I. Proprietorship.—There is a sense in which it may be said that all men
belong to Christ.
(a) His claim to us is basedprimarily on His Creatorship.
(b) All are His by redemption.
(c) Baptism is a confirmation of all this—a sign and sealof Divine
proprietorship.
(d) But believers belong to Christ also by an act of personalconsecration.
II. To belong to Christ implies privilege.
(a) Specialcare. So precious is goodness in the sight of God that He rules the
universe for the sake ofthe good.
(b) Identity of interests. If I am Christ’s my joys are His joys, my sorrows are
His sorrows.

(c) Dignity. You may speak ofa Diviner ancestry. You belong to Christ. The
King of kings owns you, and calls you His child.
III. To belong to Christ involves responsibility.
(a) We are to live for Christ. All the disorder and misery in the world may be
tracedto the fact of men living for themselves.
(b) We are to live like Christ. By the assumption of our nature, by His life on
earth, by His suffering and death, Jesus Christ exemplified a self-sacrifice
which was positively sublime, and to which the world had been a stranger.
(c) We are to confess Christ. His mastery once owned, His Headship once
acknowledged, it becomes our first and most obvious duty to confess Him
before men.
Illustration
‘If you inflict pain upon the remotestand leastsignificant joint of your finger,
the whole body sympathises, the sense of pain courses like an electric current
through the million ramifications of your frame. The union betweenChrist
and His Church is as intimate, as vital, as the union of the head with the body.
He is our Head, we are His members. You cannottouch the remotest, the
humblest member in that spiritual body without sending a thrill of sympathy
up to the common Head. “In all, our afflictions He is afflicted.” When Saul
persecutedthe saints, Jesus charges him with persecuting Himself. “Why
persecutestthou Me?” Jesus,having ascendedup on high, far above all
principalities and powers, was personallybeyond the reach of persecution;yet

a bond of union, invisible but real, linked His holy ones not only to the throne,
but also to the person of the Mediator, so that every touch of agonythey felt
thrilled its utterances to the throne and moved the heart of Him, Who sits
thereon. “He that toucheth you toucheth the apple of His eye” (Mark 9:42).’
Copyright Statement
Bibliography
Nisbet, James. "Commentaryon Mark 9:41". Church Pulpit Commentary.
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/cpc/mark-9.html. 1876.
John Trapp Complete Commentary
41 For whosoevershallgive you a cup of water to drink in my name, because
ye belong to Christ, verily I sayunto you, he shall not lose his reward.
Ver. 41. For whosoevershallgive, &c.] Much more he that shall castout
devils in my name, and out of love to me.
Copyright Statement

Bibliography
Trapp, John. "Commentary on Mark 9:41". John Trapp Complete
Commentary. https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/jtc/mark-
9.html. 1865-1868.
Greek TestamentCriticalExegeticalCommentary
41.]This verse does not take up the discourse from Mark 9:37, as some think,
but is immediately connectedwith Mark 9:40 :—‘Even the smallestservice
done in my Name shall not be unrewarded—much more should not so great
an one as casting out of devils be prohibited.’
ἐν ὀνόματι ὅτι signifies by reasonthat, but not without an allusionto τ. ὄνομά
μου, which furnishes the reason.
χριστ. ἐστέ] The only place in the Gospels where this expressionis used. Paul
has it: see reff. and Romans 8:9; 1 Corinthians 3:4.
Copyright Statement
Bibliography

Alford, Henry. "Commentary on Mark 9:41". Greek TestamentCritical
ExegeticalCommentary.
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/hac/mark-9.html. 1863-1878.
Heinrich Meyer's Critical and ExegeticalCommentaryon the New Testament
Mark 9:41. See on Matthew 10:42. There is nothing opposed to the
assumption that Jesus uttered such a saying here also, and generallyon
severaloccasions.
γάρ refers, by way of assigning a reason, to what immediately precedes, in so
far, namely, as the high significance of their position in the world is contained
in ὃς οὐκ ἔστι καθʼ ὑμῶν, ὑπὲρ ὑμῶν ἔστιν. “Forye are such important
persons as the Messiah’s disciples in the world, that he who shows to you the
smallestservice of love,” etc.
ἐν ὀνόματι ὅτι κ. τ. λ.] so that this rendering of service has its impelling reason
in the name, in the characteristicdesignation, that ye are Messiah’s disciples,
i.e. for the sake ofthe name. Comp. Winer, p. 346 f. [E. T. 484]. On εἶναί
τινος, addictum esse alicui, see Bremi, ad Dem. Phil. III. p. 125, 56;Seidler, ad
Eur. El. 1098;Ast, Lex. Plat. I. p. 621.
Copyright Statement
Bibliography

Meyer, Heinrich. "Commentary on Mark 9:41". Heinrich Meyer's Critical
and ExegeticalCommentaryon the New Testament.
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/hmc/mark-9.html. 1832.
Johann Albrecht Bengel's Gnomonof the New Testament
Mark 9:41. ὃς, who) Jesus, afterthat He has satisfiedthe reverently-proposed
difficulty felt on the part of John, returns to the former subject.— γὰρ, for)
All things are accepted, wherebyhelp is ministered to you, even the smallest
things.
[Mark 9:42. καὶ, and) After the reply has been given to John, the former
discourse is continued. So Mark 9:42 coheres with Mark 9:37.—V. g.]—
περίκειται, is hanged about) The presentof the indicative has here an
emphasis.
Copyright Statement
Bibliography
Bengel, JohannAlbrecht. "Commentary on Mark 9:41". JohannAlbrecht
Bengel's Gnomonof the New Testament.
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/jab/mark-9.html. 1897.

Matthew Poole's EnglishAnnotations on the Holy Bible
We meet with the same in substance, Matthew 10:42:there the phrase is, in
the name of a disciple; here it is expounded, because ye belong to Christ. In
my name; upon my account, believing you have a relation to me.
Copyright Statement
Bibliography
Poole, Matthew, "Commentaryon Mark 9:41". Matthew Poole's English
Annotations on the Holy Bible.
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/mpc/mark-9.html. 1685.
Cambridge Greek Testamentfor Schools andColleges
41. ὃς γάρ. The γὰρ looks back to Mark 9:37, to what was saidbefore John’s
interruption. “Receiving”Christ’s representative need not mean anything
magnificent; help as humble as a drink of water, if given for Christ’s sake,
will assuredlybe richly rewarded. Note the ἀμήν (Mark 3:28) and the οὐ μή
(Mark 9:1). It is perhaps fanciful to point out that the poorestcanoffer cold
water, whereas warmwater requires a fire (Bede).
ὅτι Χριστοῦ ἐστέ. A Pauline expression(Romans 8:9; 1 Corinthians 1:12; 1
Corinthians 3:23; 2 Corinthians 10:7). See crit. note. With the doubtful
exceptionof Luke 23:2, Christ is nowhere else in the Synoptic Gospels called
Χριστός, but always ὁ Χριστός. Dalman, Words, p. 305, thinks that the clause

is “an unnecessaryexplanationof ἐν ὀνόματί [μου],” i.e. a gloss by some
editor; so also Hawkins (Hor. Syn. p. 152)and Zahn (Introd. to N.T. II. p.
500). We might more simply suppose that, as in Mark 1:15, Mk is putting our
Lord’s meaning into the language which was usual in his day.
Copyright Statement
Bibliography
"Commentary on Mark 9:41". "Cambridge Greek TestamentforSchools and
Colleges".https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/cgt/mark-9.html.
1896.
Whedon's Commentary on the Bible
41. Give you a cup of water — See note on Matthew 10:42.
Copyright Statement
Bibliography

Whedon, Daniel. "Commentary on Mark 9:41". "Whedon's Commentary on
the Bible". https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/whe/mark-9.html.
1874-1909.
PeterPett's Commentary on the Bible
“Forwhoeverwill give you a cup of water to drink ‘because you are
Messiah’s’, truly I tell you he will assuredlynot lose his reward.”
This follows on from Mark 9:40 being an example of one who was ‘for us’ as
shown by his action. The mention of Jesus as Messiahis startling and
unexpected and indicates that these words were given in private teaching to
the disciples. Theyhad acknowledgedHis Messiahshipand He did want them
to know that He was the Messiahbut without overemphasising it. We can
compare the similar but differing statement in Matthew 10:42 in a different
context. There the cup of water was seenas given to them in a ministry during
His lifetime because they were disciples of Jesus. Here in Mark it is the giving
to them of a cup of waterwhen they engagedin their future ministry of
proclaiming Jesus as Messiah. Butthe idea is the same in both cases.
The actionof giving a cup of wateris similar to that of the woman who gave
her pittance (Mark 12:41-44). Tiny it may have been but it was vitally
important to her. And it was vitally important to God. So small a gift in the
eyes of men. So huge in the eyes of God. She was truly great. But note the
reasonfor the giving of the cup of water. It was given by someone who could
not do much but wantedto show their love for Christ, possibly even sometimes
in a hostile environment where they could have been severelymishandled for
it. What mattered was the size of the love in that person’s heart for God which
prompted the action, not the size of the gift.

‘Because youare Messiah’s.’A rare use of the term by Jesus, Who only ever
used it indirectly while on Jewishterritory (compare Matthew 23:8. See also
Matthew 22:42; Mark 12:35;Luke 20:41, which are parallelsayings to each
other). But there is no reasonwhy Jesus should not have used it in such a
context when reassuring His disciples indirectly that in spite of all He was
saying about His death and resurrectionHe really was the Messiah. And it
acknowledgedthat one day men would indeed see them as followers ofthe
true Messiah, but not yet. This is the only place in the Gospels andActs where
‘Christ’ is used without the article. It is not here a proper name but indicating
Messianic connection.
‘He will assuredly not lose his reward.’Nothing that we do for Godpasses by
unnoticed. In contrastmuch of what we claim is done for Godis done for our
own self-gratification. There will be no reward for that (Matthew 6:2;
Matthew 6:5).
Copyright Statement
Bibliography
Pett, Peter. "Commentary on Mark 9:41". "PeterPett's Commentary on the
Bible ". https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/pet/mark-9.html.
2013.
Expository Notes ofDr. Thomas Constable

The connecting idea with what precedes is the "name." Not only would the
exorcistreceive God"s blessing, but anyone who does anything to help
another person using even the name of a disciple of Jesus would receive His
reward. This help extends to the almost insignificant actof giving a cup of
cold waterto some thirsty person. This act was much less helpful than
delivering from demonic affliction.
This is one of the rare occasions whenJesus usedthe title "Messiah" of
Himself. His use of it here makes the lessoneven more forceful. The person
giving the cup of cold watermight have only a superficial understanding of
Jesus. Nonethelessif that person offeredsimple hospitality to one of Jesus"
disciples because he was a disciple of "Messiah"that one would receive God"s
blessing.
Copyright Statement
Bibliography
Constable, Thomas. DD. "Commentaryon Mark 9:41". "ExpositoryNotes of
Dr. Thomas Constable".
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/dcc/mark-9.html. 2012.
Schaff's Popular Commentary on the New Testament
Mark 9:41. For whosoevershallgive you, etc. Comp. Matthew 10:42. Here the
lessonis intended directly for the Apostles.

In this name that ye are Christ’s, i.e., because ye belong to Christ. It may
include a reference to the recognitionof Christ’s name on the part of the
giver. He always recognizes whatis done to His people, but His people are so
slow to recognize what is done for Him, if not done by them and in their way!
Copyright Statement
Bibliography
Schaff, Philip. "Commentary on Mark 9:41". "Schaff's PopularCommentary
on the New Testament".
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/scn/mark-9.html. 1879-90.
The Expositor's Greek Testament
Mark 9:41 = Matthew 10:42, but a later secondaryform of the saying:
ποτήριονὕδατος for π. ψυχραῦ, and ὅτι χριστοῦ ἐστέ instead of εἰς ὄν.
μαθητοῦ.
Copyright Statement

Bibliography
Nicol, W. Robertson, M.A., L.L.D. "Commentary on Mark 9:41". The
Expositor's Greek Testament.
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/egt/mark-9.html. 1897-1910.
E.W. Bullinger's Companion Bible Notes
ye belong to Christ = ye are Christ"s.
Christ. App-98.
Copyright Statement
Bibliography
Bullinger, Ethelbert William. "Commentary on Mark 9:41". "E.W.
Bullinger's Companion bible Notes".
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bul/mark-9.html. 1909-1922.
Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible - Unabridged

belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward. See the
note at Matthew 10:42. What follows appears to have no connectionwith the
incidental reproofof John, immediately preceding. As that had interrupted
some important teaching, our Lord hastens back from it, as if no such
interruption had occurred.
Copyright Statement
Bibliography
Jamieson, Robert, D.D.;Fausset,A. R.; Brown, David. "Commentary on
Mark 9:41". "Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible -
Unabridged". https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/jfu/mark-
9.html. 1871-8.
Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers
(41) Whosoevershallgive you a cup of water.—SeeNote onMatthew 10:42.
The reproduction of the promise in so different a contextis significantas an
instance of our Lord’s method of teaching, reiterating words of blessing and
of wisdom till they were engraved indelibly on the minds of those who heard
them.
Copyright Statement

Bibliography
Ellicott, Charles John. "Commentary on Mark 9:41". "Ellicott's Commentary
for EnglishReaders".
https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/ebc/mark-9.html. 1905.
Treasuryof Scripture Knowledge
whosoever
Matthew 10:42; 25:40
because
John 19:25-27;Romans 8:9; 14:15; 1 Corinthians 3:23; 15:23;2 Corinthians
10:7; Galatians 3:29; 5:24
Copyright Statement
Bibliography
Torrey, R. A. "Commentary on Mark 9:41". "The Treasuryof Scripture
Knowledge". https:https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/tsk/mark-
9.html.

Mark 9:41 For whosoevershallgive you a cup of waterto drink in my name,
because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward.
Goodworks assures the retention of rewards.
It is a bit foreignto my own thinking to be concernedabout the gaining or
loosing of reward. I have always servedthe Masterto the bestof my ability
with no thought as to what reward might or might not exist. I serve Him out
of love and a response to what He has done for me, not out of fear or response
to what He might yet do for me. Salvationwas the gift, and servanthood was
the response.
PRECEPTAUSTIN RESOURCES
BRUCE HURT MD
Mark 9:41 "Forwhoever gives you a cup of waterto drink because ofyour
name as followers ofChrist, truly I say to you, he will not lose his reward.
Wuest Forwhoeverwill give you to drink a cup of waterbecause you belong
to Christ, truly I am saying to you, he will positively not lose his reward.

NET Mark 9:41 For I tell you the truth, whoevergives you a cup of water
because you bear Christ's name will never lose his reward.
NLT Mark 9:41 If anyone gives you even a cup of waterbecause you belong
to the Messiah, Itell you the truth, that person will surely be rewarded.
ESV Mark 9:41 For truly, I say to you, whoevergives you a cup of water to
drink because you belong to Christ will by no means lose his reward.
NIV Mark 9:41 I tell you the truth, anyone who gives you a cup of waterin
my name because youbelong to Christ will certainly not lose his reward.
GNT Mark 9:41 Ὃς γὰρ ἂν ποτίσῃ ὑμᾶς ποτήριονὕδατος ἐν ὀνόματι ὅτι
Χριστοῦ ἐστε, ἀμὴνλέγω ὑμῖν ὅτι οὐ μὴ ἀπολέσῃ τὸν μισθὸν αὐτοῦ.
KJV Mark 9:41 For whosoever shallgive you a cup of waterto drink in my
name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his
reward.
YLT Mark 9:41 for whoever may give you to drink a cup of waterin my
name, because ye are Christ's, verily I sayto you, he may not lose his reward;
ASV Mark 9:41 For whosoevershallgive you a cup of waterto drink,
because ye are Christ's, verily I sayunto you, he shall in no wise lose his
reward.

CSB Mark 9:41 And whoevergives you a cup of waterto drink because of
My name, since you belong to the Messiah--I assure you: He will never lose
his reward.
NKJ Mark 9:41 "Forwhoevergives you a cup of waterto drink in My name,
because you belong to Christ, assuredly, I sayto you, he will by no means lose
his reward.
NRS Mark 9:41 For truly I tell you, whoevergives you a cup of water to
drink because you bear the name of Christ will by no means lose the reward.
whoever:Mt 10:42 25:40
because:Joh 19:25-27 Ro 8:9 14:15 1Co 3:23 15:23 2Co 10:7 Ga 3:29 5:24
Mark 9 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries
RelatedPassages:
Matthew 10:42+;“And whoeverin the name of a disciple gives to one of these
little ones even a cup of cold waterto drink, truly I say to you, he shall not lose
his reward.”
Matthew 25:40 “The King will answerand say to them, ‘Truly I say to you, to
the extent that you did it to one of these brothers of Mine, even the leastof
them, you did it to Me.’
For- Term of explanation. And againthis is even further explanation of the
generalattitude of those who are with and not againstJesus.

Whoevergives you a cup of waterto drink because ofyour name as followers
of Christ - Carrying out this action would be an example of being a servant. It
would be an act of hospitality as if done to to Christ Himself. Your name as
followers of Christ is in essencea preview description of the name "Christian"
(Acts 11:26+)
Wiersbe - But it is not necessaryto perform greatmiracles to prove our love
for Christ. When we lovingly receive a child or compassionatelyshare a cup of
cold water, we are giving evidence that we have the humble heart of a servant.
After all, we are serving Christ, and that is the highestservice in the world
(Matt. 25:31–46).
Truly (amen - speaks ofcertitude of following) I say to you, he will not lose his
reward - The humble act of servitude is guaranteeda eternal reward. Notis
the strong double negative (ou me) signifying "absolutelynot!"
Gilbrant - To claim allegiance to Christ is to do kind deeds, and to do them as
if they were being done to Christ himself. The believer is not his own, he
belongs to Christ, and any actof kindness is an evidence of faith and
obedience. It is interesting that Jesus usedHis title "Christ," rather than His
favorite "Sonof Man." God remains no man's debtor, so even the smallest
tokenof love will receive its reward. In the present life there is contentment,
satisfaction, andpeace of mind; in the future life there is an inheritance of
participation in the eternal Kingdom. Those who share in the extension of
Christ's ministry here on earth will also share in reigning with Him in the
coming Kingdom. This reward should not be thought of as meritorious, rather
it is a gift of God given in response to loving obedience.

Swete says:“The thread of the teaching, brokenoff at verse 38 by John’s
question, is now resumed. The spiritual significance ofhelp offeredto a
brother for Christ’s sake is independent of the material value of the gift. A
cup of watermay be judged worthy of an eternalrecompense.” The possessive
pronoun “my” does not appear with “name.” The double negative appears
with “lose,”making an emphatic negation.
Hiebert - This brief incident stands as a firm rebuke to the spirit of
sectarianism. It condemns that exclusive attitude which insists that only those
who carry on their work in harmony with one’s own views and practices can
be acceptedas really doing God’s work. If they demonstrate that they are on
God’s side in the war with Satan, even though their views may be imperfect,
they must not be condemned for such work or regardedwith abhorrence.
Utley - this verse mentions kingdom rewards for those who faithfully serve (cf.
9:41; 10:21, 28–31 andseveraltimes in Jesus’Sermon on the Mount in
Matthew 5:12, 46;6:5–6, 16–18, 19–21).
Will...lose (622)(apollumifrom apo = awayfrom or wholly + olethros = state
of utter ruin <> ollumi = to destroy <> root of apollyon = destroyer)means to
destroy utterly. Apollumi as it relates to men, is not the loss of being per se,
but is more the loss of well-being as Jesus describedin Mk. 8:35+. It means to
ruin so that the thing (in this case ones reward)so that it is no longer useful.
All uses of apollumi in Mark - Mk. 1:24; Mk. 2:22; Mk. 3:6; Mk. 4:38; Mk.
8:35; Mk. 9:22; Mk. 9:41; Mk. 11:18; Mk. 12:9
Reward(wage)(3408)(misthos)literally refers to pay which is due for labor
performed or dues paid for work. Misthos is used in two generalsenses in the
NT, either to refer to wages orto reward, recognitionor recompense. In this
latter figurative usage, misthos refers to rewards which God bestows for the

moral quality of an action, such rewards most often to be bestowedin eternity
future. Jesus associatesrewards with giving, fasting and praying teaching that
are dependent upon one's motive (Mt 6:1; 6:2+; Mt 6:5+). Note especially
future rewards for having suffered for the Name of Christ in this life (Mt
5:12+; Lk 6:23+).
Mark 9:41
A CHRISTIAN businessmanpicked up a young man who was hitchhiking in
lightweight clothing on a very cold day. This small kindness eventually led to
the salvationof the young man, his family, and some of his friends.
A twelve-year-oldboy named Cliff Miller went daily to the fence surrounding
the athletic field at Georgia State Peniten-tiaryto talk with and witness to
inmate Harold Morris. These contactsplayed a large part in Harold's
eventual conversion. Since receiving a pardon, Harold has spokento
thousands of young people around the country about Jesus Christ.
We sometimes think that if we can't do something big for Christ we might as
well do nothing. But even a smile canmake someone's daygo better. In the
name of Jesus we can sayan encouraging word, run an errand, mow a lawn,
take a meal, care for a baby, or do a variety of other small favors. They will
make an impact. Even if they do not produce immediate and spectac-ular
results, God takes note of them.—H V Lugt
Thank You, Lord, for using and rewarding small acts of kindness. May I not
be stingy with words of encouragementand acts of service. Our Daily Bread

DANIEL AKIN
) The one who serves Christ will be rewarded by Christ. 9:41
Verse 41 contains an illustration of the point Jesus is making under girded
againby
the authoritative amen translated “truly.”
Whoever:it is all inclusive.
“Gives you a cup of water to drink because you belong to Christ” – serves me
and
shows his allegiance to me by serving my servants.
“will by no means lose his reward” – I see and reward the smallestand
humblest acts
of service done to others in my name. Having a love and concernfor others
reflects
the love and concernI have for the nations (11:17), for those I came to serve
and give
9
my life as a ransom (10:45). Service to others frees us. It gets our eyes off of us
and
on others who need the same Christ we need.
An anonymous author has well said, “World Missions is God’s major therapy
for our
sin of selfishness thateats the heart out of the localchurch.” Allegiance to
Christ will

lead us to applaud and celebrate those on God’s team, even if they are
different than us.
WILLIAM BARCLAY
The teaching of this passageis simple, unmistakable and salutary.
(i) It declares that any kindness shown, any help given, to the people of Christ
will not lose its reward. The reasonfor helping is that the person in need
belongs to Jesus. Everyman in need has a claim upon us because he is dear to
Christ. Had Jesus still been here in the flesh he would have helped that man in
the most practicalway and the duty of help has devolved on us. It is to be
noted how simple the help is. The gift is a cup of coldwater. We are not asked
to do greatthings for others, things beyond our power. We are askedto give
the simple things that any man can give.
A missionary tells a lovely story. She had been telling a class ofAfrican
primary children about giving a cup of cold waterin the name of Jesus. She
was sitting on the veranda of her house. Into the village square came a
company of native bearers. They had heavy packs. Theywere tired and
thirsty, and they satdown to rest. Now they were men of another tribe, and
had they askedthe ordinary non-Christian native for waterthey would have
been told to go and find it for themselves, becauseofthe barrier between the
tribes. But as the men sat wearily there, and as the missionary watched, from
the schoolemergeda little line of tiny African girls. On their heads they had
pitchers of water. Shyly and fearfully they approachedthe tired bearers, knelt
and offeredtheir pitchers of water. In surprise the bearers took them and
drank and handed them back, and the girls took to their heels and ran to the

missionary. "We have given a thirsty man a drink," they said, "in the name of
Jesus." The little children took the story and the duty literally.
Would that more would do so! It is the simple kindnesses that are needed. As
Mahometsaid long ago, "Putting a lostman on the right road, giving a thirsty
man a drink of water, smiling in your brother's face--that, too, is charity."
CHRIS BENFIELD
. Jesus’Affirmation (40-41)– Forhe that is not againstus is on our part. [41]
For whosoevershallgive
you a cup of waterto drink in my name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I
say unto you, he shall not lose
his reward. Jesus affirmed that those who were not working againstJesus
were actually working
for Him, even though they did not travel with Him. He declaredthat all who
gave even a cup of
waterin His name, revealing they belonged to Him, would not lose their
reward. Jesus was saying
that although their approach may have been different, that did not mean it
was wrong. Jesus could
work through others the same as He did through the twelve.
 This is a lessonthe westernchurch needs to learn. We can be so judgmental
of others who
operate or serve the Lord differently than we do. We assume that their
differences disqualify them

from service or accomplishing anything of value for the Lord. We need to be
careful with such
thinking and attitudes. The Lord has dealt with my heart regarding this. You
all know that I prefer
the King James Version, but that doesn’t mean the Lord is unable to speak to
people through
other translations, revealing truth that leads to salvation. I prefer our choir to
sing, but does that
mean that any other type of music is wrong and can’t glorify God? I am a
Baptist and will be until I
die, but are we the only denomination that is reaching people with the Gospel?
Just because
others are different, doesn’t mean that God is not working through them. I
may have different
preferences, andeven disagree with some of their methods, but I can’t
condemn the work of the
Lord. If they are saved by grace, seeking to advance the Gospel, we are on the
same team,
working toward the same goals!Time will eventually reveal the truth; it will
endure if it’s of God.
Conclusion:This has been a convicting passage.Again, I am convincedwe are
more like the
disciples than we care to admit. Often we allow our desires and preferences to
hinder what the
Lord genuinely seeksto do through us. We must be willing to serve Him and
others, without being
judgmental and condemning just because someone else has a different
approach. I pray we will

seek the Lord to guide our hearts as we strive to serve Him. If there are needs
in your life,
particularly regarding salvation, come to Jesus today!
JIM BOMKAMP
VS 9:41 - “41 “Forwhoevergives you a cup of water to drink because of
your name as followers ofChrist, truly I say to you, he will not lose his
reward.” – Jesus tells the disciples that a person who gives as little as a cup of
waterto drink to them because oftheir name as followers ofChrist that they
will not lose their reward
6.1. Jesus’ disciples had been humbled after realizing that they totally
misunderstood what true greatness consistedof, and then also that they had
told a man to stop who was serving God casting out demons in the name of
Jesus. Jesus now encouragesthem that God will reward their smallestof
labors for Him, that of simply giving someone a cup of waterto drink.
Cambridge Greek Testamentfor Schools andColleges
Verse 41
41. ὃς γάρ. The γὰρ looks back to Mark 9:37, to what was saidbefore John’s
interruption. “Receiving”Christ’s representative need not mean anything
magnificent; help as humble as a drink of water, if given for Christ’s sake,

will assuredlybe richly rewarded. Note the ἀμήν (Mark 3:28) and the οὐ μή
(Mark 9:1). It is perhaps fanciful to point out that the poorestcanoffer cold
water, whereas warmwater requires a fire (Bede).
ὅτι Χριστοῦ ἐστέ. A Pauline expression(Romans 8:9; 1 Corinthians 1:12; 1
Corinthians 3:23; 2 Corinthians 10:7). See crit. note. With the doubtful
exceptionof Luke 23:2, Christ is nowhere else in the Synoptic Gospels called
Χριστός, but always ὁ Χριστός. Dalman, Words, p. 305, thinks that the clause
is “an unnecessaryexplanationof ἐν ὀνόματί [μου],” i.e. a gloss by some
editor; so also Hawkins (Hor. Syn. p. 152)and Zahn (Introd. to N.T. II. p.
500). We might more simply suppose that, as in Mark 1:15, Mk is putting our
Lord’s meaning into the language which was usual in his day.
Expositor's Bible Commentary
All help, then, is to be welcomed;not to hinder is to speedthe cause. And
therefore Jesus, repeating a former saying, adds that whosoever, movedby
the name of Christ, shall give His followers one cup of water, shall be
rewarded. He may be and continue outside the Church; his after life may be
sadly inconsistentwith this one action:that is not the question; the sole
condition is the genuine motive--one impulse of true respect, one flicker of
loyalty, only decided enough to speedthe wearyambassadorwith the simplest
possible refreshment, should "in no wise lose its reward." Does this imply that
the giver should assuredly enter heaven? Alas, no. But this it says, that every
spark of fire in the smoking flax is tended, every gracious movementis
answeredby a gift of further grace, to employ or to abuse. Not more surely is
the thirsty disciple refreshed, than the feverish worldliness of him who just
attains to render this service is fanned and cooledby breezes from heaven, he
becomes aware ofa deeperand nobler life, he is melted and drawn towards
better things. Very blessed, orvery miserable is he who cannot remember the
holy shame, the yearning, the sigh because he is not always thus, which

followednaturally upon some deed, small in itself perhaps, but goodenough
to be inconsistentwith his baserself. The deepening of spiritual capacityis
one exceeding greatrewardof every act of loyalty to Christ.
IRONSIDE
“Whosoevershallgive you a cup of waterto drink in my name, because ye
belong to Christ… shall not lose his reward.” Notice that expression, “because
ye belong to Christ.” It is not a question of whether one belongs to our
particular group, or whether he follows our ways, but whether he belongs to
Christ. Whatever is done for the followerof Christ in the name of the Lord
cannot fail of reward.
MATTHEW HENRY
41 For whosoevershallgive you a cup of water to drink in my name, because
ye belong to Christ, verily I sayunto you, he shall not lose his reward. 42 And
whosoevershalloffend one of these little ones that believe in me, it is better
for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he were castinto the
sea. 43 And if thy hand offend thee, cut it off: it is better for thee to enter into
life maimed, than having two hands to go into hell, into the fire that never
shall be quenched: 44 Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not
quenched. 45 And if thy foot offend thee, cut it off: it is better for thee to enter
halt into life, than having two feet to be castinto hell, into the fire that never
shall be quenched: 46 Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not
quenched. 47 And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out: it is better for thee to
enter into the kingdom of God with one eye, than having two eyes to be cast

into hell fire: 48 Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched. 49
For every one shall be saltedwith fire, and every sacrifice shallbe saltedwith
salt. 50 Saltis good:but if the salt have lost his saltness, wherewithwill ye
seasonit? Have salt in yourselves, and have peace one with another.
Here, I. Christ promiseth a reward to all those that are any way kind to his
disciples (Mark 9:41) "Whosoevershallgive you a cup of water, when you
need it, and will be a refreshment to you, because ye belong to Christ, and are
of his family, he shall not lose his reward." Note, 1. It is the honour and
happiness of Christians, that they belong to Christ, they have joined
themselves to him, and are ownedby him they wear his livery and retainers to
his family nay, they are more nearly related, they are members of his body. 2.
They who belong to Christ, may sometimes be reduced to such straits as to be
glad of a cup of cold water. 3. The relieving of Christ's poor in their distresses,
is a gooddeed, and will turn a goodaccounthe accepts it, and will rewardit.
4. What kindness is done to Christ's poor, must be done them for his sake, and
because they belong to him for that is it that sanctifies the kindness, and puts
a value upon it in the sight of God. 5. This is a reasonwhy we must not
discountenance and discourage those who are serving the interests of Christ's
kingdom, though they are not in every thing of our mind and way. It comes in
here as a reasonwhy those must not be hindered, that castout devils in
Christ's name, though they did not follow him for (as Dr. Hammond
paraphrases it) "It is not only the greateminent performances which are done
by you my constantattendants and disciples, that are acceptedby me, but
every the leastdegree of sincere faith and Christian performance,
proportionable but to the expressing the leastkindness, as giving a cup of
waterto a disciple of mine for being such, shall be acceptedandrewarded." If
Christ reckons kindness to us services to him, we ought to reckonservices to
him kindnesses to us, and to encourage them, though done by those that follow
not with us.

LANGE
Mark 9:41. Whosoevershallgive you a cup of water (see Matt. 10:42.)The
third γάρ, for: a threefold significantestablishment of the rule laid down by
our Lord, not to hinder beginnings. First reason:Such a man will not soon
become mine enemy. Secondreason:If any one were againstyou, he would
give assurance ofthe fact; if he is not againstyou, it is to be assumedat the
outsetthat he is for you. Third reason:The respectand love which is even
outwardly shownyou in the very slightestdegree by men in the world, for
Christ’s sake, orin His name, proves that they stand in a certainspiritual
connectionwith Him, which under His blessing may increase andbecome
more strict. The smallesttokenof friendship you receive as disciples of Christ,
is a tokenof friendship to your Master, whichis rewarded by Him with the
blessing of greaterfriendship. Thus: 1. The beginning of friendly feeling
excludes the thought of a speedyenmity; 2. so much so, that the cessationof
enmity, in any instance, is to be regardedas friendship; 3. because the
slightesttokenof friendliness, which is understood by that cessationofenmity,
is blessedand furthered until it has become decided love and friendship. From
the external friendship which is manifested in external proofs of love, men go
on to internal friendship: from the disciples of Christ, whom they
acknowledge as such, they come to Christ Himself. Thus we must esteemholy
all the loots, relations, and tendencies of goodwhich Christianity finds in the
world,—yet that Christianity which does not deny itself and the Lord (ἐν τῷ
ὀνόματί μου). We assume that the three fors all directly refer to the “forbid
him not,” without disparaging the connectionin which they stand to each
other.
J. D. JONES
The Rewardof Helpful Service.

It is with the sure and rich reward of all helpful service that our Lord is
concernedin the first verse of our paragraph. "Whosoevershallgive you a
cup of waterto drink, because ye are Christ"s, verily I say unto you, he shall
in no wise lose his reward" ( Mark 9:41). Let me, if I can, make clearwhat I
conceive to be the sequence of thought. Jesus has finished His comments on
John"s story with the sentence, "He that is not againstus is for us." As if to
say, "That man who was casting out devils in My name was not a foe, he was a
friend. He was not to be denouncedand hindered; he was to be encouraged.
He was really helping us." And then He goes onto saythat whoeverhelps His
disciples, even though it be only to the extent of a cup of cold water, he shall
by no means lose his reward. The sequence is perfectly natural and
intelligible. You may say, indeed, that this is the Lord"s blessing upon that
interrupted and excommunicatedstranger. John and his companions had
denounced him, and tried to hinder him. The Masterblessedhim. The
disciples thought he was their enemy, and so they forbade him: the Master
saw he was their friend and ally and helper, and so He said that that unknown
strangershould in no wise lose his reward. But though I think that our Lord
had the interdicted man speciallyin mind when He uttered this saying, He
castit into the form of a generalstatement. "Whosoevershallgive you a cup
of water to drink, because ye are Christ"s, verily I sayunto you, he shall in no
wise lose his reward." Broadly speaking, you may saythat is an assertionof
the sure reward of every helpful Christian service. Looking a little more
closely, we shall find the saying suggestive oftwo or three other truths beside
that main and centralone.
Act and Motive.
First of all, what a suggestionwe gethere as to the constitution of genuine
Christian giving! Christian giving is giving for Christ"s sake. Christian
service is service in Christ"s name. The giving of a cup of cold waterwas a
service common enough in a hot country like Palestine. Whattransfigured

that common actinto a Christian Acts , was when the cup of water was given
to a disciple because he was Christ"s. In a word, it is the motive that decides
whether an act or a gift is Christian or no. There is a greatdeal of giving in
our world that is not Christian. A greatmany give because it is the fashion
and custom to give. A subscription list is started for the relief of distress, and
we feel we must for respectability"s sake have our names upon it. I do not
know that giving prompted by such motives counts for anything in Christ"s
sight. Then there is a greatdeal of giving that springs from humanitarian
motives. Men are touched by the thought of human misery, and give. That is
philanthropy. I do not say that is not admirable. It is. But there is a higher
plane to be reachedby us. Our giving becomes Christian when we give for
Christ"s sake.
The Quality of Service.
Then see how our Lord omits from His notice not even the slightestand
humblest service. Nothing could be cheaper, in a sense, no service could be
simpler, than the gift of a cup of cold water;and yet the Lord notices that
small service, and of it He says it shall by no means lose its reward. We
sometimes deplore that the gifts we can offer and the services we canrender
are so small. This saying is for our specialencouragement. Cups of cold
water—itis only humble and trivial services of that kind we seemcapable of.
But it is not the quantity so much as the quality of the work that decides its
value in God"s sight. Go on giving your cups of cold water, rendering your
little kindnesses, speaking your simple words, in the name and for the sake of
Christ—go on doing these things. Christ notices them. Verily I say unto you,
you shall in no wise lose your reward.
The Certainty of Reward.

And now as to this certainty of reward. Is it true? Yes. The man who does a
kindness to another because he is Christ"s, receives his reward in an enlarged
capacityfor kindness, in spiritual enrichment. Life somehow becomes richer
and deeperfor him; every little act of Christian service seems to lift his own
life on to higher levels. Of course, in spite of all this, a man may allow his
baserinstincts to getthe mastery over him, and so the rewardmay have been
bestowedupon him in vain. But there is no doubt about the reward. "The
deepening of spiritual capacity," as BishopChadwick says, "is one exceeding
greatreward of every act of loyalty to Christ." And that reward never fails.
DAVID LEGGE
Let me show you the other illustration for a moment please, verses 38 and 41 -
John, after seeing this illustration and getting the point, by the way, he says:
'Lord', look at verse 38, 'Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name,
and he doesn't follow us: and we forbid him, because he doesn't follow us'.
Now if Peterhad said that, I would have takena different connotationout of
it, but I was asking myself during the week:why was it John? John doesn't
usually pipe up like this, sure he doesn't? But John is the deep thinker, and
John is realising the illustration of the child that he has just seen - they had
done something contrary to that in their actions toward this man who was
casting out demons in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. What he was really
inferring was:they would not receive this man, they would not acceptthis
man because he wasn't one of the twelve. The Lord Jesus Christ said: 'If he's
not againstme, he is for me. If he's doing this in my name, he is one of mine,
and you must receive him, you must not forbid him'.
Now surely you can see how this applies to the evangelicalchurch today? I
hope I'm not being overdramatic in saying that I believe that among us, and I
speak of the church of Jesus Christ worldwide, jealousyis a greatproblem.

Resentment, pride in evangelicalismin generalis at epidemic proportions -
because we have it all in our hearts as individuals, I have enough to sink a
fleet! When you put that all together - personalpride, professionalpride - and
you projectit into the church - denominational pride, doctrinal pride - you
have people who say:
'Believe as I believe, no more, no less;
That I am right (and no one else)confess.
Feelas I feel, think as I think;
Eat as I eat, drink what I drink
Look as I look, do as I do;
Then and only then I'll have fellowship with you'.
Now please don't misunderstand what I'm saying this morning: I of all people
believe that doctrine is of supreme importance, it is - but note that this man
wasn't teaching false doctrine, and this man wasn'tliving an immoral life.
This wasn't a question of separating from the world or doctrinal error, this
was blatant sectarianism- they just wouldn't acceptthis man because he
wasn't one of their number! The Lord nails it: 'It's wrong!'. Never
compromise on the light God has given you, never throw doctrine out the
window to all be one in some kind of pseudo-Christian unity - that's false
ecumenism, and it's not of God. But let me say this: never allow your
doctrinal position to cause youto look down your nose at another child of
God, never! Christ won't allow it.
Even the leastesteemed, we are to embrace them. It doesn't mean we have to
agree with everything that they sayor do, and we have to say and do it - no,
no!

It's challenging to me, I can tell you, and I'm sure it is to you. Even the least
esteemed, we are to embrace them. It doesn't mean we have to agree with
everything that they say or do, and we have to say and do it - no, no! But if
they are truly born again, look at the criteria in verse 41: 'If you do this to one
who belongs to me' - belongs to me! We need to get back to that! There's a
church in Laodicea in the book of Revelation, who said: 'We have need of
nothing' - remember? 'We have need of nothing', pride! Where was Jesus
Christ? Outside the door! Couldn't getin!
It's better to embrace even those who reject us. Warren Weirsbe said: 'It
never ceasesto amaze me how God blesses those Idon't agree with!'. You see,
it's not a question in God's eyes of whether you belong to this group, that
group, or the other group; whether you follow one person's tradition or
another - it's whether you belong to Christ! Now all those other things aren't
unimportant, but they are not the most important. The ironic thing is: these
disciples of Christ forbid this man to do something that they couldn't do
themselves!Isn't that right? They couldn't castthe demon out of the young
boy, this man was doing it! Was it jealousy? Do you know what can happen? I
think it's happening sometimes in our province, across ourworld. Those that
have the truth and haven't used it with the responsibility that they should
have, God is moving awayfrom them and blessing some people that don't
have as much truth. God can do that you know. Hopefully He'll lead them on
to the truth - I'm not talking about salvationhere, I'm talking about other
issues that are important. So often we can be proud, and become criticalof
other Christians, become sectarian, denominationalto the point that God can
bypass.
I haven't gottime to go into all this, my time is well up, but this happened in
the Old Testament. Joshua came to Moses:'There are two men prophesying
in the camp, shut them up!'. Moses said:'I would to God that every man was
prophesying for God'. Paul said: 'I rejoice if Christ is preachedeven by
people, at times, who aren't preaching Him for the right motive'. John the

Baptist's disciples came to him and said: 'There are people leaving you and
going to listen to Jesus Christ', and he said, 'I'm only the bestman, He's the
Bridegroom. I must decrease, He must increase'. It's all about Him, it has to
be!
'I don't care what church you belong to,
Just as long as for Calvary you stand.
If your sins have been washedin the fountain,
You're my brother, so give me your hand'.
That's the way it should be! It should be, but it's not, sure it's not? Well, I've
finished - there are other things I could say to you, but just to say this:
individually and collectivelypride is our greatestenemy, and humility is our
greatestfriend. A Keswick speakeronce said:'There is nothing God cannot
do if we keepour hands off the glory'. 'How can I have humility?', you say.
That's not the right question to be asking, it's: where can I have humility?
There is a place, and it is the foot of the cross. As the greathymn writer said:
'Forbid it, Lord, that I should glory,
Save in the cross ofChrist my God'.
That's where true greatnessis found: at the footof the cross, serving and
sacrificing. A modern hymn writer put it like this:
'So let us learn how to serve,
Eachother's need to prefer,

For it is Christ we're serving'.
Who are you going to give a cold cup of waterto today in Jesus'name? You
don't need to castout demons, just a cold cup of water - and that will be your
first step on the journey to greatnessand to glory. God bless His word to
every heart.
JOHN GILL
Verse 41
on his account:
be with him:

PETER PETT
Verse 41
“Forwhoeverwill give you a cup of water to drink ‘because you are
Messiah’s’, truly I tell you he will assuredlynot lose his reward.”
This follows on from Mark 9:40 being an example of one who was ‘for us’ as
shown by his action. The mention of Jesus as Messiahis startling and
unexpected and indicates that these words were given in private teaching to
the disciples. Theyhad acknowledgedHis Messiahshipand He did want them
to know that He was the Messiahbut without overemphasising it. We can
compare the similar but differing statement in Matthew 10:42 in a different
context. There the cup of water was seenas given to them in a ministry during
His lifetime because they were disciples of Jesus. Here in Mark it is the giving
to them of a cup of waterwhen they engagedin their future ministry of
proclaiming Jesus as Messiah. Butthe idea is the same in both cases.
The actionof giving a cup of wateris similar to that of the woman who gave
her pittance (Mark 12:41-44). Tiny it may have been but it was vitally
important to her. And it was vitally important to God. So small a gift in the
eyes of men. So huge in the eyes of God. She was truly great. But note the
reasonfor the giving of the cup of water. It was given by someone who could
not do much but wantedto show their love for Christ, possibly even sometimes
in a hostile environment where they could have been severelymishandled for
it. What mattered was the size of the love in that person’s heart for God which
prompted the action, not the size of the gift.
‘Because youare Messiah’s.’A rare use of the term by Jesus, Who only ever
used it indirectly while on Jewishterritory (compare Matthew 23:8. See also
Matthew 22:42; Mark 12:35; Luke 20:41, which are parallelsayings to each

other). But there is no reasonwhy Jesus should not have used it in such a
context when reassuring His disciples indirectly that in spite of all He was
saying about His death and resurrectionHe really was the Messiah. And it
acknowledgedthat one day men would indeed see them as followers ofthe
true Messiah, but not yet. This is the only place in the Gospels andActs where
‘Christ’ is used without the article. It is not here a proper name but indicating
Messianic connection.
‘He will assuredly not lose his reward.’Nothing that we do for Godpasses by
unnoticed. In contrastmuch of what we claim is done for Godis done for our
own self-gratification. There will be no reward for that (Matthew 6:2;
Matthew 6:5).
DAVID THOMPSON
God wants His disciples to know that whoeverdoes something nice for them
because theyare connectedto Him will be rewarded. 9:41
Now this verse is not designedto promote a philosophy that says all charity
will be rewarded.
This verse is for the purpose of teaching that those who provide for the needs
of His disciples
and for the Kingdom work will be rewarded.
Now notice the title that Jesus gives to Himself here. It is a rare moment when
He does this. He
identifies Himself as the “Christ.” This is the proper noun that means Jesus is
the Messiah.

Jesus rewards cup of cold water

Jesus rewards cup of cold water

Recommended

Recommended

More Related Content

What's hot

What's hot (20)

Similar to Jesus rewards cup of cold water

Similar to Jesus rewards cup of cold water (20)

More from GLENN PEASE

More from GLENN PEASE (20)

Recently uploaded

Recently uploaded (20)

Jesus rewards cup of cold water