Matthew Chapter 17 · Verse 21
Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.
Original Language Analysis
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
γένος
kind
G1085
γένος
kind
Strong's:
G1085
Word #:
4 of 12
"kin" (abstract or concrete, literal or figurative, individual or collective)
μὴ
G3361
μὴ
Strong's:
G3361
Word #:
8 of 12
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
προσευχῇ
prayer
G4335
προσευχῇ
prayer
Strong's:
G4335
Word #:
10 of 12
prayer (worship); by implication, an oratory (chapel)
Historical Context
First-century Judaism practiced fasting for spiritual purposes, particularly in connection with prayer for divine intervention. Jesus fasted forty days before beginning ministry (Matthew 4:2). The early church continued this practice (Acts 13:2-3, 14:23). This teaching came shortly before Jesus' Passion, preparing disciples for coming trials requiring intense prayer.
Questions for Reflection
- What spiritual battles in your life require intensified prayer and fasting?
- How does fasting demonstrate dependence on God versus earning His favor?
- When have past spiritual victories led to presumption rather than continued dependence?
Analysis & Commentary
Jesus explains the disciples' failure to cast out the demon: 'this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.' Some spiritual battles require extraordinary dependence on God. While many manuscripts omit 'and fasting,' the principle remains: certain ministries demand concentrated devotion and self-denial. Reformed practice recognizes prayer and fasting as means of grace, not earning God's favor but expressing desperate dependence. The disciples' failure despite previous successes (Matthew 10:8) shows that past victories don't guarantee present power—continuous reliance on God is essential.