Devine Scripture

Matthew 17:19

What does Matthew 17:19 mean?

A plain-English look at Matthew 17:19 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Matthew 17:19 means

Later, the disciples privately approach Jesus, asking why they themselves were unable to cast out the demon. This question reveals their honest confusion and perhaps a measure of disappointment or embarrassment over their failure. Their inquiry indicates a desire to understand their limitations and grow in their ministry, acknowledging Jesus' superior power and seeking wisdom from Him.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

Then came the disciples to Jesus apart, and said, Why could not we cast it out?

KJV

King James Version · 1611

Then came the disciples to Jesus apart, and said, Why could not we cast him out?

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

Then came the disciples to Jesus apart, and said, Why could not we cast it out?

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

Then the disciples came to Jesus privately, and said, Why were we not able to send it out?

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

Then the disciples having come to Jesus by himself, said, `Wherefore were we not able to cast him out?'

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

Jesus said to them: Because of your unbelief. For, amen I say to you, if you have faith as a grain of mustard seed, you shall say to this mountain: Remove from hence hither, and it shall remove: and nothing shall be impossible to you.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

Then the disciples, coming to Jesus apart, said [to him], Why were not we able to cast him out?

Context

This verse introduces the disciples' follow-up question, prompted by their recent failure to heal the boy and Jesus' subsequent swift success. It occurs after the public healing, marking a private moment of instruction. Their question sets the stage for Jesus' teaching on faith and prayer, addressing their specific shortcomings and providing principles for effective spiritual ministry.

v.18And Jesus rebuked him; and the demon went out of him: and the boy was cured from that hour.

v.19This passage

v.20And 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.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Mark 4:10

    And when he was alone, they that were about him with the twelve asked of him the parables.

  • Mark 9:28

    And when he was come into the house, his disciples asked him privately, How is it that we could not cast it out?

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