Matthew 17:21

KJV

Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.

KJV (with Strong's)

Howbeit {G1161} this {G5124} kind {G1085} goeth {G1607} not {G3756} out {G1607} but {G1508} by {G1722} prayer {G4335} and {G2532} fasting {G3521}.

Complete Jewish Bible

But this kind does not go out except through prayer and fasting."

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 17:21, a verse found in the King James Version and other textual traditions, provides a crucial clarification following the disciples' inability to cast out a demon from a young boy. After Jesus successfully performs the exorcism and addresses their lack of faith, this verse emphasizes that certain particularly stubborn spiritual entities or "kinds" of demonic influence require a deeper level of spiritual engagement, specifically through dedicated prayer and fasting, highlighting the necessity of divine power accessed through humble spiritual discipline.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the dramatic account of Jesus' transfiguration on the mountain and His subsequent descent to a scene of spiritual distress. In [Matthew 17:14-18](/matthew/17-14-18 "Matthew 17:14-18 - Jesus Heals a Demon-Possessed Boy"), a father brings his demon-possessed son to the disciples, who fail to heal him. Jesus rebukes the demon and heals the boy, demonstrating His supreme authority. Privately, the disciples ask Jesus, "[Why could not we cast him out?](/matthew/17-19 "Matthew 17:19 - Disciples' Question")" Jesus responds in [Matthew 17:20](/matthew/17-20 "Matthew 17:20 - Jesus on Faith Like a Mustard Seed") by attributing their failure to their "unbelief" or "little faith," famously stating that faith as small as a mustard seed can move mountains. Matthew 17:21 then serves as an additional, vital clarification, suggesting that while faith is foundational, certain spiritual strongholds necessitate intensified spiritual disciplines beyond mere intellectual assent or a general belief. It's important to note for KJV users that this verse, while integral to the Textus Receptus tradition, is absent from some of the earliest and most prominent Greek manuscripts (like Codex Vaticanus and Codex Sinaiticus), which is why it is often omitted or bracketed in many modern translations. However, its theological message aligns with other biblical teachings on spiritual warfare and discipline.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient world, and particularly within Jewish culture, the concept of demon possession was widely accepted, and exorcism was a recognized practice. Various methods were employed, often involving incantations, rituals, or the invocation of divine names. Jesus' ministry, however, consistently demonstrated an unparalleled and effortless authority over evil spirits, distinguishing Him from other exorcists of His time. The disciplines of prayer and fasting were deeply ingrained in Jewish piety. Fasting was practiced for various reasons: as an expression of repentance, a sign of mourning, a means of seeking God's favor, or to intensify prayer and spiritual focus. Examples include Moses ([Exodus 34:28](/exodus/34-28 "Exodus 34:28 - Moses' Fast")), Elijah ([1 Kings 19:8](/1_kings/19-8 "1 Kings 19:8 - Elijah's Fast")), and Daniel ([Daniel 9:3](/daniel/9-3 "Daniel 9:3 - Daniel's Prayer and Fasting")). The Pharisees were known for their regular fasting ([Luke 18:12](/luke/18-12 "Luke 18:12 - Parable of the Pharisee and Tax Collector")). Jesus Himself fasted for forty days in the wilderness ([Matthew 4:2](/matthew/4-2 "Matthew 4:2 - Jesus' Fasting in the Wilderness")), setting an example of profound spiritual discipline. Thus, the disciples would have been familiar with these practices, and Jesus' instruction would have resonated within their cultural understanding of spiritual engagement.

* **Key Themes:** Matthew 17:21 contributes significantly to several key themes within the Gospel of Matthew and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it underscores the reality and intensity of **spiritual warfare**, indicating that not all demonic forces are equally susceptible to expulsion and that some require a more concentrated spiritual effort. Secondly, it highlights the **power and necessity of spiritual disciplines**, specifically **prayer and fasting**, as essential means by which believers can access and wield divine authority against entrenched evil. This reinforces the theme of **dependence on God**, emphasizing that victory in spiritual battles is not achieved through human strength or technique, but through humble reliance on God's omnipotence. Finally, it subtly refines the theme of **faith**, suggesting that while faith is the fundamental prerequisite for divine intervention ([Matthew 17:20](/matthew/17-20 "Matthew 17:20 - Jesus on Faith Like a Mustard Seed")), the depth and efficacy of that faith in confronting formidable spiritual opposition are often cultivated and expressed through diligent spiritual practices like prayer and fasting.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **kind (Greek, _génos'_):** From G1085, this word refers to a "kin" or "offspring," and by extension, a "class," "species," or "type." In this context, "this kind" (τοῦτο τὸ γένος, _touto to génos_) specifically denotes a particular *type* or *category* of demonic entity. It implies that there are varying degrees of spiritual opposition, and some are more deeply entrenched or resistant than others, requiring a distinct approach.
* **goeth out (Greek, _ekporeúomai'_):** From G1607, meaning "to depart," "be discharged," or "proceed." Here, it directly refers to the expulsion or casting out of the demon. The phrase "goeth not out" (οὐκ ἐκπορεύεται, _ouk ekporeúetai_) emphasizes the difficulty and resistance of this particular "kind" of demon, indicating that its departure is not easily achieved and requires a specific, powerful intervention.
* **prayer (Greek, _proseuchḗ'_):** From G4335, meaning "prayer" or "worship." This term denotes direct, earnest communication with God. In the context of exorcism, it signifies a humble yet fervent appeal to divine power, acknowledging human inadequacy and relying solely on God's authority to overcome spiritual strongholds. It is the primary means of accessing God's intervention.
* **fasting (Greek, _nēsteía'_):** From G3521, meaning "abstinence from food," particularly for religious purposes. Fasting, when coupled with prayer, is presented as a spiritual discipline that intensifies focus, expresses deep earnestness, and humbles the individual before God. It is not a magical formula but a means of denying the flesh to sharpen spiritual sensitivity and demonstrate profound dependence on God for breakthrough.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Howbeit this kind":** The introductory "Howbeit" (Greek: δέ, _dé_) serves as a conjunction, connecting this statement to Jesus' previous explanation about faith. It introduces a qualification or further clarification. "This kind" refers specifically to the particularly stubborn and resistant type of demon that the disciples had failed to cast out, indicating a category of spiritual opposition that presents unique challenges.
* **"goeth not out":** This phrase directly addresses the difficulty of expelling such a demon. It implies that the usual or expected methods of spiritual authority might be insufficient for this specific "kind" of spiritual entity, underscoring its tenacious grip and the need for a more potent spiritual engagement.
* **"but by prayer":** This clause introduces the indispensable means by which such a demonic entity can be dislodged. "Prayer" is presented as the essential pathway for accessing divine power. It emphasizes that human effort alone is futile against such forces, and genuine reliance on God through earnest supplication is paramount.
* **"and fasting":** This addition specifies a second, complementary spiritual discipline. Fasting, when combined with prayer, intensifies the spiritual focus, demonstrates profound humility and desperation before God, and can lead to a heightened spiritual sensitivity that facilitates breakthrough against particularly stubborn spiritual strongholds. It signifies a deeper level of commitment and dependence.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in Matthew 17:21 is **Explanatory Clarification**. Following Jesus' general statement about the power of faith in [Matthew 17:20](/matthew/17-20 "Matthew 17:20 - Jesus on Faith Like a Mustard Seed"), this verse provides a specific addendum, detailing the intensified spiritual practices required for certain formidable spiritual battles. This serves to refine the disciples' understanding, moving beyond a simplistic view of faith to acknowledge the nuanced demands of spiritual warfare. There is also an element of **Emphasis** placed on the disciplines of prayer and fasting, highlighting their critical role in situations where ordinary spiritual efforts prove insufficient. The phrase "this kind" functions as a form of **Categorization**, distinguishing between different levels of demonic influence and implying a hierarchy or varying degrees of resistance within the spiritual realm.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 17:21 reveals profound theological truths about the nature of spiritual warfare and the means by which believers engage with it. It teaches that while all authority belongs to Christ and is delegated to His followers, the exercise of this authority against deeply entrenched spiritual strongholds often requires a heightened level of spiritual discipline and dependence on God. Prayer is presented not merely as a request but as a vital conduit for divine power, and fasting as a means of humbling oneself, intensifying spiritual focus, and demonstrating profound earnestness in seeking God's intervention. This verse underscores that true victory is rooted in God's power, accessed through humble and persistent spiritual engagement, rather than human strength or technique. It challenges believers to cultivate a deeper spiritual life, prepared for the more formidable battles that may arise.

* [Mark 9:29](/mark/9-29 "Mark 9:29 - Parallel Account of Jesus' Teaching")
* [Ephesians 6:12](/ephesians/6-12 "Ephesians 6:12 - Spiritual Warfare")
* [James 5:16](/james/5-16 "James 5:16 - The Power of Prayer")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 17:21 offers timeless principles for believers navigating the complexities of life and faith. It reminds us that not all challenges are equal; some "kinds" of spiritual strongholds, persistent sins, generational patterns, or seemingly insurmountable obstacles in our lives or ministries may require a more intensified and dedicated approach. This verse calls us to move beyond casual spirituality to a deeper, more disciplined reliance on God. When confronted with situations that seem resistant to our usual efforts, it prompts us to engage in fervent, persistent prayer, often coupled with the spiritual discipline of fasting. This is not about earning God's favor or manipulating Him, but about humbling ourselves, sharpening our spiritual focus, and demonstrating our profound dependence on His power, not our own. It's an invitation to cultivate a spiritual resilience that trusts God for breakthrough even in the most stubborn circumstances, leading to greater spiritual sensitivity and experiencing His transformative power.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "kinds" of persistent challenges or spiritual strongholds in your life or community seem resistant to ordinary efforts?**
* **How might incorporating more fervent prayer and intentional fasting deepen your reliance on God and prepare you for spiritual breakthrough?**
* **In what ways can a disciplined spiritual life, as suggested by this verse, strengthen your faith and empower you to face difficult circumstances?**

### FAQ
**Why is Matthew 17:21 sometimes missing or bracketed in modern Bible translations?**

Answer: Matthew 17:21 is absent from some of the earliest and most reliable Greek manuscripts, such as Codex Vaticanus and Codex Sinaiticus. Its inclusion in the King James Version and other translations stems from its presence in later manuscripts, particularly those that form the basis of the Textus Receptus. Scholars believe it may have been an early scribal addition, possibly imported from the parallel account in [Mark 9:29](/mark/9-29 "Mark 9:29 - Jesus Heals a Boy with a Spirit"), which explicitly includes the "prayer and fasting" clause. While its textual authenticity is debated, its theological message regarding the efficacy of prayer and fasting for spiritual breakthrough is consistent with other biblical teachings found throughout Scripture.

**Is fasting always necessary for spiritual breakthrough, according to this verse?**

Answer: Matthew 17:21 suggests that for "this kind" of particularly stubborn or resistant spiritual entity, prayer *and* fasting are necessary. This implies that while not every spiritual battle may require fasting, certain deeply entrenched strongholds or significant spiritual challenges may indeed call for this intensified discipline. Fasting, when undertaken with the right heart—not as a magical formula, but as an act of humble dependence, self-denial, and intensified focus on God—can sharpen spiritual sensitivity and demonstrate a profound earnestness that God honors. It is a tool for deeper spiritual engagement, not a universal prerequisite for all answered prayers, but a powerful one for specific, difficult circumstances.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 17:21, though focusing on the disciples' need for prayer and fasting, ultimately points to Christ as the ultimate embodiment and source of authority over all "kinds" of spiritual opposition. Jesus Himself lived a life of perfect dependence on the Father, marked by deep prayer ([Luke 5:16](/luke/5-16 "Luke 5:16 - Jesus Often Withdrew to Pray")) and periods of fasting, most notably His forty days in the wilderness where He decisively defeated the temptations of the devil ([Matthew 4:1-11](/matthew/4-1-11 "Matthew 4:1-11 - Jesus' Temptation in the Wilderness")). He is the one who perfectly lived out the principle of overcoming through complete reliance on God. The "kind" of demon that resisted the disciples ultimately bows to the name and authority of Jesus, who, through His death and resurrection, disarmed and triumphed over all principalities and powers ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Powers")). Believers now operate not in their own strength, but in the power of the Holy Spirit, wielding the authority granted to them by Christ, the Victorious One ([Luke 10:19](/luke/10-19 "Luke 10:19 - Jesus Gives Disciples Authority")). Thus, "this kind" and every other kind of spiritual darkness ultimately "goeth out" because of the finished work of Christ on the cross, which broke the power of sin and death, and through His ongoing intercession ([Hebrews 7:25](/hebrews/7-25 "Hebrews 7:25 - Christ's Intercession")). Our prayer and fasting are not to earn victory, but to align ourselves with and appropriate the victory already secured by our Lord Jesus Christ.

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.