Matthew 17:20

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} Jesus {G2424} said {G2036} unto them {G846}, Because {G1223} of your {G5216} unbelief {G570}: for {G1063} verily {G281} I say {G3004} unto you {G5213}, If {G1437} ye have {G2192} faith {G4102} as {G5613} a grain {G2848} of mustard seed {G4615}, ye shall say {G2046} unto this {G5129} mountain {G3735}, Remove {G3327} hence {G1782} to yonder place {G1563}; and {G2532} it shall remove {G3327}; and {G2532} nothing {G3762} shall be impossible {G101} unto you {G5213}.

Complete Jewish Bible

have trust as tiny as a mustard seed, you will be able to say to this mountain, `Move from here to there!' and it will move; indeed, nothing will be impossible for you!"

Berean Standard Bible

“Because you have so little faith,” He answered. “For truly I tell you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.”

American Standard Version

And he saith unto them, Because of your little faith: 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.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 17:20 presents Jesus' direct explanation for His disciples' inability to cast out a demon, attributing their failure to a lack of faith. He powerfully declares that even a faith as minuscule as a mustard seed possesses the capacity to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles, metaphorically represented by moving a mountain, thereby asserting that "nothing shall be impossible" for those who truly believe. This statement underscores the profound connection between genuine faith and the manifestation of divine power in the world.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This declaration by Jesus immediately follows a significant event in His ministry: the Transfiguration on the mountain, where Peter, James, and John witnessed His glory ([Matthew 17:1-8](/matthew/17-1-8 "The Transfiguration of Jesus")). Upon descending, they are met by a crowd, including a desperate father whose son is severely afflicted by a demon, causing him to have seizures and fall into fire or water ([Matthew 17:14-16](/matthew/17-14-16 "A Demoniac Boy Healed")). The disciples, who had previously been given authority to cast out demons ([Matthew 10:1](/matthew/10-1 "Jesus Gives Authority to His Disciples")), failed to heal the boy. Their private question to Jesus, "Why could not we cast him out?" ([Matthew 17:19](/matthew/17-19 "Disciples Ask Why They Could Not Cast Out the Demon")), directly prompts Jesus' teaching on faith and unbelief in verse 20. This sequence highlights a contrast between Jesus' divine power demonstrated in the Transfiguration and His subsequent healing, versus the disciples' spiritual impotence, setting the stage for a crucial lesson on the nature of faith.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, mountains were often perceived as symbols of immense, immovable obstacles or powerful kingdoms. The hyperbolic expression "to move a mountain" was a common idiom among Jewish rabbis to describe the ability to overcome an extraordinary difficulty or to solve a complex problem. Therefore, Jesus' use of this imagery would have been readily understood by His audience as referring to the accomplishment of the humanly impossible. The mustard seed, though tiny, was also a well-known symbol for something incredibly small that could grow into a large plant, providing shelter ([Matthew 13:31-32](/matthew/13-31-32 "Parable of the Mustard Seed")). This cultural understanding reinforces the idea that it is not the *quantity* but the *quality* and *object* of faith that matters. Demonic possession was a recognized reality, and the inability to cast out demons was a significant failure for those claiming spiritual authority.
* **Key Themes:** Matthew 17:20 contributes significantly to several key themes within Matthew's Gospel and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it profoundly addresses the **nature and power of faith**, emphasizing that even a small amount of genuine faith directed towards God can yield extraordinary results, making the humanly impossible, possible. Secondly, it highlights the **hindrance of unbelief** (`apistia`), revealing it as a significant barrier to experiencing God's power and working His will. The disciples' failure serves as a cautionary tale against spiritual doubt and distrust. Thirdly, the passage underscores the **sovereignty and omnipotence of God**, affirming that His power is limitless, and it is through human faith that this divine power is channeled into the world. This teaching also relates to the broader theme of **discipleship**, exposing the spiritual immaturity of the disciples even after significant time with Jesus, and calling them (and us) to a deeper reliance on God. This echoes Jesus' earlier teachings on the necessity of faith for miracles, as seen in His inability to do many mighty works in Nazareth due to their unbelief ([Matthew 13:58](/matthew/13-58 "Jesus Does Not Do Many Mighty Works in Nazareth")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **unbelief (Greek, _apistía_):** From G570. This term denotes a state of distrust, lack of faith, or faithlessness. It is not merely an intellectual absence of belief but a condition of the heart that fails to fully rely on God's power and promises. In this context, it signifies the disciples' failure to trust God's ability to act through them, despite the authority Jesus had previously given them.
* **faith (Greek, _pístis_):** From G4102. This word signifies persuasion, credence, or moral conviction, especially reliance upon Christ for salvation. Here, it refers to a genuine trust in God's power and willingness to intervene. Jesus emphasizes that it is not the size of this conviction but its authenticity and proper object (God) that unlocks divine potential.
* **impossible (Greek, _adynatéō_):** From G101. This term means to be unable or, passively, to be impossible. Jesus' declaration that "nothing shall be impossible unto you" directly contrasts with the disciples' inability, asserting that with faith, the humanly unachievable becomes attainable through God's power.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief:"** Jesus directly addresses the disciples' private question, pinpointing the root cause of their failure: their lack of faith or distrust. This reveals that spiritual efficacy is not about technique or inherent power, but about the condition of one's heart and reliance on God.
* **"for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed,"** Jesus introduces a solemn truth ("verily I say unto you"), emphasizing the profound nature of His upcoming statement. The comparison to a mustard seed highlights that the *quantity* of faith is not the issue, but its *quality* – a genuine, living faith, no matter how small its initial manifestation.
* **"ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove;"** This is a powerful hyperbole, a vivid metaphor for overcoming any seemingly insurmountable obstacle or difficulty. It signifies that with God's power activated through faith, even the most daunting challenges can be overcome and transformed.
* **"and nothing shall be impossible unto you."** This climactic statement serves as a sweeping promise and a profound theological truth. It asserts the boundless potential available to those who operate in genuine faith, implying that when human faith aligns with divine will, God's omnipotence is unleashed, making all things possible according to His purposes.

#### Literary Devices
Matthew 17:20 is rich with **Figurative Language**, employing both **Simile** and **Hyperbole** to convey its profound message. The **Simile** "faith as a grain of mustard seed" vividly compares the smallest known seed to the potential of genuine faith. This comparison is not about the *amount* of faith but its *vitality* and *potential for growth*, suggesting that even a tiny spark of true belief can yield immense results. Following this, the **Hyperbole** "ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place" is a deliberate exaggeration used to emphasize the extraordinary power available through faith. Mountains were symbols of permanence and immovability, so commanding one to move highlights the overcoming of truly impossible obstacles. This is not meant to be taken literally as a physical relocation of geological formations, but as a powerful **Metaphor** for the spiritual and practical challenges that can be surmounted when one trusts in God. The combination of these devices makes Jesus' teaching memorable and impactful, underscoring the limitless possibilities when faith is exercised.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 17:20 stands as a foundational text regarding the nature and power of faith, illustrating that human faith is the conduit through which God's omnipotence operates in the world. It is not a declaration of human self-sufficiency, but rather an affirmation of God's boundless power made accessible to those who trust Him. The passage underscores that the hindrance to divine activity is often not God's unwillingness or inability, but humanity's lack of genuine reliance on Him. This concept challenges believers to move beyond intellectual assent to a dynamic, active trust that expects God to work in and through their lives, even in the face of overwhelming circumstances. It teaches that true faith, regardless of its perceived size, connects us to an infinite power source, transforming what appears impossible into reality according to God's will.

* [Mark 11:23](/mark/11-23 "Mark 11:23 - Faith to Move Mountains")
* [Luke 17:6](/luke/17-6 "Luke 17:6 - Faith Like a Mustard Seed")
* [Jeremiah 32:27](/jeremiah/32-27 "Jeremiah 32:27 - Is Anything Too Hard for the Lord?")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 17:20 offers a profound challenge and immense encouragement for believers navigating the complexities of life. It compels us to honestly assess the areas where unbelief might be limiting God's work in our lives, whether in personal struggles, ministry endeavors, or societal challenges. Instead of being overwhelmed by the "mountains" before us, Jesus redirects our focus to the transformative power of even a nascent, authentic faith. This verse calls us to cultivate a deeper trust in God's character and promises, recognizing that He is able and willing to act far beyond our human limitations. It invites us to pray with bold expectation, to confront our doubts with God's truth, and to step out in courageous obedience, knowing that our small faith, when placed in a great God, can accomplish extraordinary things for His glory.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "mountains" or seemingly impossible obstacles are you currently facing in your life that require a mustard seed of faith?**
* **In what areas of your life or ministry do you detect "unbelief" hindering God's power, and how can you actively cultivate a deeper trust in Him?**
* **How does understanding that "nothing shall be impossible unto you" through faith impact your prayer life and your expectations for God's intervention?**

### FAQ

**Does "moving mountains" mean I can literally move physical mountains with faith?**

Answer: No, Jesus' statement about "moving mountains" is a classic example of **hyperbole**, a literary device used to emphasize a point through exaggeration. In ancient Jewish culture, "moving mountains" was a common idiom for overcoming immense, seemingly impossible obstacles or solving incredibly difficult problems. Jesus is not promising literal geological shifts but rather the ability to surmount the greatest challenges and accomplish what is humanly impossible through the power of God activated by genuine faith. The focus is on spiritual and practical victories, not on defying the laws of physics for trivial purposes.

**What is the difference between "unbelief" and "little faith"?**

Answer: While closely related, "unbelief" (Greek: _apistía_) in Matthew 17:20 refers to a fundamental lack of trust or active distrust in God's power and willingness to act, leading to spiritual impotence. It's a state where faith is absent or significantly compromised. "Little faith" (Greek: _oligopistía_), which Jesus uses elsewhere (e.g., [Matthew 6:30](/matthew/6-30 "Matthew 6:30 - O You of Little Faith")), implies that faith is present, but it is weak, wavering, or insufficient to overcome current anxieties or challenges. In Matthew 17:20, the disciples' failure was attributed to "unbelief," suggesting a more profound spiritual deficiency than simply having a small amount of faith. Jesus teaches that even a "grain of mustard seed" of genuine faith is enough, implying that the *quality* and *object* of faith are more crucial than its perceived quantity.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 17:20, while a powerful statement on the efficacy of faith, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the perfect embodiment of faith, always perfectly aligned with the Father's will, demonstrating the very power He promises to His disciples. The "mountains" that were truly impossible for humanity to move were the mountains of sin, death, and separation from God. These were not moved by human faith, but by the perfect obedience and sacrificial work of Christ on the cross. His death and resurrection are the ultimate demonstration that "nothing shall be impossible" with God, as He conquered the greatest enemies of humanity ([Romans 8:37-39](/romans/8-37-39 "Romans 8:37-39 - More Than Conquerors Through Him")). Through Christ, believers are united with Him by faith, and it is His Spirit within them that empowers them to overcome spiritual "mountains" and live lives that reflect God's kingdom. Our faith, no matter how small, is effective because it is placed in the all-sufficient Christ, who has already accomplished the impossible, making us participants in His victory and enabling us to do "greater works" through Him ([John 14:12](/john/14-12 "John 14:12 - Greater Works Through Jesus")). Thus, the power to move mountains is not inherent in human faith, but flows from our union with the One who is the "author and perfecter of our faith" ([Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Looking Unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of Our Faith")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Luke 17:6

And the Lord said, If ye had faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye might say unto this sycamine tree, Be thou plucked up by the root, and be thou planted in the sea; and it should obey you.

Mark 11:23

For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith.

Luke 18:27

And he said, The things which are impossible with men are possible with God.

Luke 1:37

For with God nothing shall be impossible.

Matthew 21:21

Jesus answered and said unto them, Verily I say unto you, If ye have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this [which is done] to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; it shall be done.

Mark 9:23

Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things [are] possible to him that believeth.

1 Corinthians 13:2

And though I have [the gift of] prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.