Jesus answered, 'This kind can come forth by nothing, but by prayer and fasting' (Τοῦτο τὸ γένος ἐν οὐδενὶ δύναται ἐξελθεῖν εἰ μὴ ἐν προσευχῇ καὶ νηστείᾳ). The phrase 'this kind' (touto to genos, Τοῦτο τὸ γένος) indicates levels of demonic resistance—some demons yield easily, others require intensive spiritual discipline. 'Prayer' (proseuchē, προσευχῇ) emphasizes dependence on God's power, not human technique. 'Fasting' (nēsteia, νηστείᾳ) demonstrates serious self-denial and spiritual focus. Together they indicate that certain spiritual battles require sacrificial devotion beyond routine religious practice. The disciples had authority (Mark 6:7) but lacked the spiritual preparation necessary for this particular conflict. This teaches that ministerial authority must be accompanied by personal piety. Power without prayer produces presumption and failure.
Historical Context
Fasting was established Jewish spiritual discipline (Leviticus 16:29; Joel 2:12; Matthew 6:16-18). Early church practiced fasting for serious spiritual matters (Acts 13:2-3; 14:23). Some manuscripts omit 'and fasting,' leading textual scholars to debate whether it's original. However, early church tradition universally included fasting with prayer as spiritual warfare essential. Jesus' teaching introduced a crucial principle: spiritual authority requires spiritual discipline. The Pharisees practiced regular fasting (Mark 2:18) but lacked spiritual power; the disciples had authority but needed to cultivate deeper devotion. True spiritual power comes from intimate communion with God through prayer and self-denial, not mere position or past success.
Questions for Reflection
How does Jesus' requirement of prayer and fasting challenge contemporary expectations of spiritual power through techniques or formulas?
What does the necessity of fasting teach about self-denial's role in cultivating spiritual sensitivity and authority?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Jesus answered, 'This kind can come forth by nothing, but by prayer and fasting' (Τοῦτο τὸ γένος ἐν οὐδενὶ δύναται ἐξελθεῖν εἰ μὴ ἐν προσευχῇ καὶ νηστείᾳ). The phrase 'this kind' (touto to genos, Τοῦτο τὸ γένος) indicates levels of demonic resistance—some demons yield easily, others require intensive spiritual discipline. 'Prayer' (proseuchē, προσευχῇ) emphasizes dependence on God's power, not human technique. 'Fasting' (nēsteia, νηστείᾳ) demonstrates serious self-denial and spiritual focus. Together they indicate that certain spiritual battles require sacrificial devotion beyond routine religious practice. The disciples had authority (Mark 6:7) but lacked the spiritual preparation necessary for this particular conflict. This teaches that ministerial authority must be accompanied by personal piety. Power without prayer produces presumption and failure.