Matthew 21:21
Iesus answered, and said vnto them, Uerily I say vnto you, if yee haue faith, and doubt not, yee shall not onely doe this which is done to the figge tree, but also, if ye shall say vnto this mountaine, Be thou remoued, and be thou cast into the Sea, it shall be done. Matthew 21:21 (KJV)
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. Matthew 21:21 (KJV)
The context of Matthew 21:21 follows the incident with the fig tree (Matthew 21:18‑22) that occurs right after Jesus’ cleansing of the temple. Having entered Jerusalem, Jesus saw a fig tree full of leaves but bearing no fruit, cursed it, and the tree withered instantly. The disciples were amazed at the sudden withering, and Jesus answered their astonishment with this teaching on faith.
The Power of Faith
Jesus begins, “If ye have faith, and doubt not,” emphasizing that true faith must be unwavering and free from doubt. The verse highlights that faith is not merely a mental assent but a deep, genuine, and focused trust in God’s power. Such faith plays a crucial role in the believer’s life, enabling divine possibilities that otherwise seem impossible.
Mountain‑Moving Faith
By saying that a person with such faith can command a mountain to be removed and cast into the sea, Jesus uses a vivid illustration to show that nothing is impossible for God when believers trust Him completely. The language is metaphorical, pointing to the limitless potential of faith aligned with God’s will.
Symbolism of the Mountain
The mountain represents any obstacle or challenge that appears immovable before God’s purposes. Just as a physical mountain seems insurmountable, personal trials can feel overwhelming. Yet Jesus assures that with steadfast faith, even the most daunting barriers can be overcome.
Application
Believers are encouraged to cultivate a strong, unwavering faith that goes beyond intellectual acknowledgment. This involves daily trust, confidence in God’s ability to work, and a willingness to confront obstacles, knowing that God can move what seems immovable.
The Condition of Doubt
Jesus specifically warns against doubt, which can weaken faith and hinder the experience of God’s power. While doubt is a natural human struggle, the passage calls believers to combat it by growing in knowledge of God, seeking His wisdom, and strengthening their relationship with Him.
God’s Sovereignty
The verse does not present faith as a tool for personal desire apart from God’s plan. Rather, it demonstrates the extraordinary possibilities that arise when faith is exercised in harmony with God’s sovereign will and purpose.
Summary
Matthew 21:21 teaches that unwavering, doubt‑free faith empowers believers to face and overcome seemingly impossible challenges. It calls us to trust deeply in God’s power, align our faith with His will, and remember that with God, no obstacle is insurmountable.
