Matthew 17:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 17:20
20 And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you.
Chapter Context
Matthew 17 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of discipleship, love, grace. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-90 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christianity was separating from Judaism following Jerusalem's destruction.
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 21-27: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Matthew and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Matthew 17:20
20 And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you.
Analysis
Jesus' explanation 'Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you' addresses the disciples' failure to cast out the demon (v. 16). The problem was 'unbelief,' not lack of ability. The mustard seed analogy emphasizes faith's quality, not quantity—even tiny genuine faith accomplishes impossible things. The mountain-moving metaphor represents seemingly impossible obstacles overcome by faith.
Historical Context
The disciples had previously cast out demons (10:1, 8), so their failure here confused them. Jesus diagnoses unbelief—perhaps presuming on past success rather than trusting God presently. The mustard seed, proverbially tiny, illustrates that even small genuine faith accesses infinite divine power. Mountain-moving was rabbinic imagery for overcoming great difficulties.
Reflection
- What 'mountains' in your life need mustard-seed faith to move?
- How does unbelief limit God's power working through you?
Word Studies
- Faith: πίστις (Pistis) G4102 - Faith, belief, trust
Cross-References
- Faith: Matthew 21:21, Mark 9:23, 11:23, Luke 17:6, John 11:40, 1 Corinthians 13:2
- Parallel theme: Matthew 13:31, Mark 4:31, Luke 1:37, 18:27