“He replied, ‘Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, “Move from here to there,” and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.’” – Matthew 17:20
Faith is a cornerstone of Christianity, and few verses encapsulate its power and potential like Matthew 17:20. It’s a verse that speaks to the boundless possibilities that faith in God can unlock, even when our faith feels as small as a mustard seed. But what does it truly mean to have faith that moves mountains? And how can we apply this in our lives today?
Let’s dive deeper into the purpose, relevance, and history of this verse, exploring its meaning and how it continues to inspire believers worldwide.
The Context of Matthew 17:20
To fully appreciate the meaning of Matthew 17:20, it’s essential to understand the context in which Jesus spoke these words.
The Event Leading to the Verse
In the preceding verses, Jesus and His disciples encountered a boy possessed by a demon. The boy’s father had begged the disciples to heal him, but they were unable to do so. When Jesus arrived, He cast out the demon with ease. The disciples, puzzled and perhaps embarrassed by their failure, asked Jesus why they couldn’t drive out the demon.
His reply, captured in Matthew 17:20, pointed to the disciples’ lack of faith. He explained that even faith as small as a mustard seed could accomplish the seemingly impossible, like moving a mountain.
The Symbolism of the Mustard Seed
The mustard seed is one of the smallest seeds in the world, yet it grows into a large tree-like plant. Jesus often used it as a metaphor for growth and potential, as seen in other parables, such as the Parable of the Mustard Seed (Matthew 13:31-32).
What It Represents:
- Small Beginnings: Faith doesn’t have to start large. Even a tiny amount of genuine faith can yield tremendous results.
- Growth Over Time: Like the mustard seed growing into a tree, our faith can expand and deepen as we trust God more.
- Power in Simplicity: The emphasis isn’t on the size of the seed but on the life-giving potential it holds, much like faith.
What Does It Mean to “Move Mountains”?
At first glance, this phrase might seem literal, but it’s rich with metaphorical meaning.
- Overcoming Challenges: Mountains often symbolize obstacles and difficulties in life. Faith enables us to tackle problems that seem insurmountable.
- Trusting in God’s Power: Moving a mountain isn’t about human effort—it’s about trusting God to work through us.
- Spiritual Transformation: Mountains also represent spiritual growth, such as overcoming doubt, fear, or sin.
The Historical and Cultural Relevance
Faith in First-Century Judaism
In the Jewish tradition, faith was deeply tied to trust in God’s promises. For Jesus’ disciples, the idea of moving mountains wasn’t just a poetic metaphor; it reflected the belief that God’s power could make the impossible possible.
The Early Church and This Verse
Early Christians often clung to Matthew 17:20 as they faced persecution. Their faith, though tested, allowed them to endure hardships and spread the Gospel despite overwhelming odds.
How This Verse Speaks to Us Today
In Moments of Doubt
It’s comforting to know that Jesus doesn’t demand monumental faith. He assures us that even the smallest amount of genuine faith can yield great results. This is especially encouraging during seasons of doubt when we feel our faith is fragile.
In Facing Life’s Challenges
Whether it’s a difficult diagnosis, financial struggles, or relational conflicts, Matthew 17:20 reminds us that no problem is too big for God. Our role is to trust Him and take that first step in faith.
In Spiritual Growth
This verse calls us to continually nurture our faith. Like the mustard seed, our faith has the potential to grow and bear fruit, but it requires care through prayer, scripture, and community.
Personal Reflection: A Mountain of My Own
There was a season in my life when this verse became more than just words on a page. A few years ago, my family faced a financial crisis that felt like a mountain looming over us. I remember sitting at the kitchen table late one night, bills scattered around me, and feeling utterly defeated.
I prayed, but my prayers were small and hesitant, like my faith, and I kept thinking, How can I ask God for a miracle when my faith feels so weak?
One day, while reading Matthew 17:20, it clicked. The size of my faith didn’t matter—what mattered was placing that faith in God. I started praying differently, not with grand requests, but with simple trust. Over time, doors began to open—unexpected financial support, job opportunities, and a sense of peace that transcended our situation.
That mountain didn’t move overnight, but God taught me that faith isn’t about my strength—it’s about His.
Practical Ways to Grow Faith
- Daily Prayer: Make prayer a consistent part of your routine. Start small—just five minutes a day to connect with God.
- Meditate on Scripture: Reflect on verses like Matthew 17:20 to remind yourself of God’s promises.
- Surround Yourself With Believers: Join a Bible study or faith-based group to encourage and support your journey.
- Celebrate Small Victories: Recognize the little ways God is working in your life and thank Him for them.
- Step Out in Faith: Take small risks that require trusting God, whether it’s volunteering, forgiving someone, or pursuing a dream.
Inspiring Reads From Other Blogs
Looking for more encouragement on faith and spiritual growth? Check out these blogs:
- Desiring God: Their post “Faith as Small as a Mustard Seed” dives deeper into this verse’s meaning.
- Bible Study Tools: Read “How to Build Faith That Moves Mountains” for practical insights.
- Proverbs 31 Ministries: Their devotional “When Your Faith Feels Small” offers encouragement for tough seasons.
Final Thoughts: Faith That Grows
Matthew 17:20 isn’t just a call to action—it’s an invitation to trust. It reminds us that our faith doesn’t have to be perfect or grand. It just has to be real.
If you’re facing a mountain in your life right now, take heart. Even the smallest step of faith can unleash God’s power in ways you can’t imagine. Trust Him, and watch as He begins to move mountains.
What mountain are you trusting God to move? Share your story in the comments—I’d love to hear how this verse has inspired you.
For more study, read this post: