New Testament
Mark 9:17
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, a father approaches Jesus amidst a crowd, expressing his desperation for help.
- Author
- John Mark
- Written
- Around AD 55-65
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Roman and Gentile Christians
A man in the crowd spoke up and said, "Teacher, I brought my son to you, who has a spirit that makes him unable to speak."
And one of the multitude answered and said, Master, I have brought unto thee my son, which hath a dumb spirit;
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, a father approaches Jesus amidst a crowd, expressing his desperation for help. He explains that his son is afflicted by a spirit that prevents him from speaking. This situation highlights the father's deep concern and the challenges faced by families dealing with spiritual or physical afflictions. The term 'dumb spirit' indicates a condition that not only affects the boy's ability to speak but also suggests a broader struggle with demonic influence. The father's plea reflects a common theme in the Gospels where individuals seek Jesus for healing and deliverance. This moment sets the stage for Jesus to demonstrate His authority over evil spirits and His compassion for those in distress. The father's faith in bringing his son to Jesus shows the importance of seeking help from a higher power in times of trouble, emphasizing the need for community support and faith in divine intervention.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Mark 9:17 to your life
This verse encourages us to bring our struggles and the struggles of our loved ones to Jesus. It reminds us of the importance of faith and seeking help in difficult times. We should not hesitate to reach out for support, whether through prayer, community, or professional help, when facing challenges.
Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Mark 9:17 mean?
Mark 9:17 describes a father who brings his son to Jesus, seeking help for a spirit that prevents the boy from speaking. This verse illustrates the father's desperation and highlights the broader theme of seeking healing and deliverance from spiritual afflictions.
What is the meaning of 'dumb spirit' in Mark 9:17?
The term 'dumb spirit' in Mark 9:17 refers to a condition that causes the boy to be unable to speak, indicating a spiritual affliction. It suggests that the boy's inability to communicate is linked to demonic influence, emphasizing the need for divine intervention.
How does Mark 9:17 relate to faith?
Mark 9:17 shows the father's faith as he brings his son to Jesus for healing. This act of seeking help reflects the importance of faith in times of trouble and the belief in the possibility of divine intervention.
What themes are present in Mark 9:17?
Key themes in Mark 9:17 include faith, healing, spiritual struggle, the father-son relationship, community support, and divine authority. These themes highlight the challenges faced by families and the importance of seeking help in difficult situations.

The Book of Mark
Mark 1: John the Baptist and the Beginning of Jesus's Ministry
John the Baptist appears in the wilderness and preaches a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. People from Judaea and Jerusalem come to him, confess their sins, and are baptized in the river Jordan. John wears camel's hair and a leather belt and eats locusts and wild honey. He announces that someone stronger than he is coming after him and says he is not worthy to stoop down and untie his sandals. He baptizes with water, but the one coming will baptize with the Holy Ghost.
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