New Testament
Matthew 17:15
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Lord, have mercy on my son, for he is a lunatic and greatly tormented. He often falls into the fire and into the water.
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Lord, have mercy on my son: for he is lunatick, and sore vexed: for ofttimes he falleth into the fire, and oft into the water.
What Matthew 17:15 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, a father pleads with Jesus to help his son, who suffers from severe mental and physical distress. The term 'lunatic' reflects the understanding of the time regarding mental illness, indicating that the boy experiences episodes that cause him to act dangerously, often putting himself at risk by falling into fire or water. The father's desperation highlights the severity of the boy's condition and his need for divine intervention. This moment illustrates the compassion of Jesus and the power of faith in seeking healing. The father's acknowledgment of his son's suffering and his appeal for mercy show the importance of recognizing our limitations and turning to God for help in times of crisis. It also emphasizes the need for community support and understanding for those who struggle with mental health issues, as well as the importance of seeking help from those who can provide it.
How to apply Matthew 17:15 to your life
This verse encourages us to seek help for ourselves and others in times of distress. It reminds us of the importance of compassion and understanding towards those who suffer from mental health issues. We should not hesitate to reach out to God and others for support when facing challenges.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 'lunatic' mean in Matthew 17:15?
In Matthew 17:15, the term 'lunatic' reflects the historical understanding of mental illness during biblical times. It refers to someone who experiences severe mental distress or episodes that can lead to dangerous behavior. The father describes his son as being tormented and at risk of harm, indicating that he suffers from a condition that causes him to act unpredictably, often putting himself in danger.
Why did the father ask Jesus for mercy?
The father asked Jesus for mercy because he was desperate for help for his son, who was suffering greatly. His plea highlights the severity of the boy's condition and the father's recognition that he cannot help his son on his own. By turning to Jesus, the father demonstrates faith in Jesus' ability to heal and intervene in dire situations, emphasizing the importance of seeking divine assistance in times of crisis.
What can we learn about mental health from this verse?
This verse teaches us the importance of compassion and understanding towards those who struggle with mental health issues. It highlights the need for community support and the acknowledgment of suffering. The father's plea for help serves as a reminder that it is okay to seek assistance for ourselves or loved ones and that divine intervention and support from others can be crucial in overcoming challenges related to mental health.
How does this verse illustrate Jesus' compassion?
Matthew 17:15 illustrates Jesus' compassion by showing His willingness to respond to the father's desperate plea for help. Jesus does not turn away from the suffering but instead engages with the father and his son, demonstrating His empathy and readiness to heal. This moment reflects the broader theme of Jesus' ministry, which is centered on mercy, healing, and addressing the needs of those who are marginalized or in distress.
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