Matthew 17:21

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

Matthew 17:21 (KJV)

Context

In the King James Version, Matthew 17:21 records Jesus’ words after His disciples failed to cast out a demon from a boy suffering seizures. The preceding verses (Matthew 17:14-20) show Jesus healing the boy and telling the disciples their unbelief caused their failure. Then He adds that this kind of demon goes out only by prayer and fasting.

Some ancient manuscripts do not contain this verse, and several modern translations omit it. However, it is present in the King James Version and aligns with the parallel account in Mark 9:29, where Jesus says, “This kind can come forth by nothing, but by prayer and fasting.”

Meaning

The phrase “this kind” points to a particularly stubborn or severe demon, one that resists ordinary measures. Jesus teaches that while faith is essential, certain spiritual victories require a deeper level of devotion and self-denial. Prayer and fasting are not magical formulas but means of drawing closer to God, humbling ourselves before Him, and aligning our hearts with His purposes.

Prayer is communicating with God—seeking His guidance, expressing gratitude, and making requests known to Him. Fasting involves abstaining from food or certain activities for a set time to focus on God, demonstrate discipline over physical desires, and remind ourselves of our dependence on Him.

Biblical connections

This verse connects directly to the disciples’ question in Matthew 17:19 about why they could not cast out the demon. Jesus’ answer in verse 20 emphasizes faith, and verse 21 adds the need for prayer and fasting for this specific kind. The parallel in Mark 9:29 reinforces the same teaching.

Application

While the verse specifically addresses casting out a particular kind of demon, the underlying principle applies broadly to spiritual battles and obstacles. Some challenges require persistent, devoted prayer accompanied by fasting. This is not a general rule for every situation but a specific instruction for particularly difficult spiritual resistance.

Prayer and fasting do not guarantee immediate results. They are means of seeking God’s guidance, humbling ourselves, and gaining spiritual strength. Our reliance must be on God’s power, not our own abilities or efforts.

Reflection

Consider areas where you face stubborn spiritual opposition. Are you willing to set aside time for focused prayer and fasting? This verse calls believers to a deeper level of dedication, trusting that God meets us in these disciplines and empowers us to overcome challenges that seem beyond our strength.