Where is the Power?

Read Mark 9.

The Apostle Paul wrote, "Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God!  How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways!" (Romans 11:33)

Even for the most diligent follower of Christ, it takes time and repeated hearing to begin to understand what God is saying to us.  After years of studying His word, we still can gain new insights and fresh applications for our lives.  In 8:31, Jesus foretold of His suffering, death and resurrection.  He repeated it in 9:9.  But Peter, James, and John did not understand, "questioning what this rising from the dead might mean." (v.10)  Spiritual growth is a never ending process.  It is evidenced in this chapter.

As the four of them came down from the mountain, they witnessed the other disciples arguing with the scribes.  A young boy could not speak and experienced seizures.  But there was more. The convulsions were violent to the point of self-destruction.  The disciples perceived that this was more than a physical or mental condition.  Demonic possession had become evident.

Previously, when Jesus had called and sent out the twelve, He empowered them to preach and "heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons." (Matthew 10:8).  But their attempts to help in this case went were in vain.  Then, came Jesus with His assessment and instruction.

1. No faith. (v.19)
Jesus did not hide His frustration with those who surrounded Him.  They should have known better.  The scribes, scholars of the Old Testament, should have perceived the situation and depended on the power of God.  The disciples should have remembered their calling and empowerment.  For them it was a crisis of their faith.  Do we truly believe God in every situation?

2. No ifs. (vv.22-24)
This is not an example of "if it be Thy will", looking toward the result of prayer.  This kind of "if" questions the character of God and His goodness.  This "if" questions the ability of God to help in time of need.  The strong statement by Jesus erases those types of "ifs".  "All things are possible for the one who believes."  Why would God answer the prayers of those who do not think He can help?

What a transparent admission by this hurting dad!  "I believe; help my unbelief!"  We all have been there.  We do trust God and we do know He can do all things.  But, in the midst of a crisis and pain we realize there is room to grow in our faith and to trust Him more.

3. No prayer. (vv.28-29)
The disciples saw the spiritual war yet wanted to know why they were powerless in helping this boy.  Jesus' answer seems to indicate that His followers tried to solve the issue on their own, instead of seeking God's power in prayer.  Yes, the Holy Spirit has gifted each believer to serve the Lord successfully.  But the empowerment is not in our abilities.  Our strength is not in our knowledge.  In John 15:5 Jesus spoke plainly to them: "...for apart from me you can do nothing."