What does Matthew 17:20 mean?

Explanation

Matthew 17:20 is a verse that conveys a powerful message about the nature of faith and its capacity to achieve what seems impossible.

Jesus responds to His disciples' inability to heal a demon-possessed boy, attributing their failure to a lack of faith.

He uses the mustard seed, one of the smallest seeds known at the time, as a metaphor to describe a tiny amount of faith that can accomplish great things.

The hyperbolic language Jesus employs emphasizes that even the smallest grain of genuine faith has the potential to overcome massive obstacles, represented here by the metaphorical mountain.

Historical Context

This verse is part of a narrative in the Gospel of Matthew where Jesus and his disciples are engaged in their ministry. The disciples' lack of faith had just been exposed when they could not heal a boy with a demon, and Jesus steps in to heal the boy himself.

The context is crucial because it shows that the disciples, despite being close to Jesus and witnessing His works, still struggled with faith.

The mention of moving mountains was a Jewish figure of speech implying the overcoming of great difficulties, and it was a concept that would be familiar to the audience of that time.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse has been interpreted in various ways.

One perspective views it as emphasizing the omnipotence of God and the idea that nothing is too difficult when aligned with divine will.

Another viewpoint suggests that this message is not about literal mountains moving but rather about the potential of faith to bring about substantial change in the spiritual, relational, and even physical realms.

A faith that is genuine, even if small, aligns the believer with the power of God, which is capable of doing far beyond human capability.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, Matthew 17:20 can be understood as an encouragement to individuals in their spiritual journey.

It suggests that faith, no matter how small, has great value.

People can take heart that they don't need overwhelming faith to face their challenges; a small, sincere belief in God can be sufficient to see them through difficult times.

It also serves as a call to trust in God's power rather than get discouraged by the size of the obstacles they face.

Cross-References

• 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 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."
• 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."

Language Study

The key terms in the original Greek text of this verse are "πίστις" (pistis), commonly translated as "faith," and "κόκκον" (kokkon), which means a "grain" or specifically in this case, a "grain of mustard." "ὄρος" (oros) is the word for "mountain." Understanding these terms in the original language provides depth to the metaphor Jesus uses.

"Pistis" implies trust, belief, or confidence in something, whereas "kokkon" denotes something very small, and "oros" signifies a large obstacle or challenge.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In various ancient cultures, mountains have often symbolized stability and eternity.

In the Jewish context, faith in God was central to encountering challenges.

The mustard seed was a common expression for the tiniest measure, and Jesus used these familiar symbols to teach a spiritual principle.

Comparatively, in other ancient religions, such as Greek and Roman mythologies, faith and belief also played roles but were more focused on pleasing or appeasing gods to gain their favor.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific standpoint, the verse is not discussing a literal geological phenomenon but rather using hyperbole to make a point about the power of faith.

Scientifically, moving a mountain would involve an immense amount of energy and is not achievable by verbal command.

The use of such hyperbole in communication is understood across many cultures as a way to emphasize the significance of a statement without it being taken literally.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and theologians have examined this verse extensively.

Some emphasize the contrast between the small size of the mustard seed and the enormity of the task of moving a mountain to illustrate the power of faith in God.

Others stress that Jesus was not encouraging literalism in interpreting His words but instead urging His followers to trust in God's power.

Additional commentaries may suggest that the genuine faith required is not faith in one's ability but faith in God’s capability and willingness to act in accordance with His will and purposes.