Mark 9:28
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Mark 9:28
28 And when he was come into the house, his disciples asked him privately, Why could not we cast him out?
Chapter Context
Mark 9 is a action-oriented gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of grace, truth, judgment. Written during the mid first century CE (c. 65-70 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Composed during or just after Nero's persecution when eyewitnesses were disappearing.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-50: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Mark and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Mark 9:28
28 And when he was come into the house, his disciples asked him privately, Why could not we cast him out?
Analysis
When Jesus 'was come into the house, his disciples asked him privately, Why could not we cast him out?' (εἰσελθόντος αὐτοῦ εἰς οἶκον οἱ μαθηταὶ αὐτοῦ κατ' ἰδίαν ἐπηρώτων αὐτόν, Ὅτι ἡμεῖς οὐκ ἠδυνήθημεν ἐκβαλεῖν αὐτό;). Their private question reveals humility—acknowledging failure and seeking understanding. The phrase 'why could not we' (hoti hēmeis ouk ēdynēthēmen, ὅτι ἡμεῖς οὐκ ἠδυνήθημεν) expresses genuine perplexity. They had successfully cast out demons before (Mark 6:13), so this failure was unexpected. Jesus' answer (v. 29) reveals that spiritual authority requires ongoing prayer and fasting, not just initial commissioning. Ministerial power isn't automatic or permanent but requires continuous dependence on God. The disciples' question models proper response to spiritual failure—private, humble inquiry seeking Jesus' instruction.
Historical Context
The disciples' earlier successful exorcisms (Mark 6:7-13) during their mission made this failure surprising. Jewish exorcism practices existed, but Jesus had given disciples unique authority over demons (Mark 3:15; 6:7). Their question 'Why could not we?' assumes they should have succeeded based on previous experience. Jesus' answer about prayer and fasting introduces a crucial principle: different spiritual battles require different levels of spiritual discipline. Some victories come easily; others require intensive prayer. This became foundational for Christian spiritual warfare teaching. The early church emphasized prayer and fasting for ministry effectiveness (Acts 13:2-3; 14:23).
Reflection
- How does the disciples' humble, private inquiry after failure model appropriate response to ministerial inadequacy?
- What does their surprise at failing (having succeeded before) teach about the danger of presuming upon past spiritual victories?