“This type can only be expelled through prayer” — the true reason the disciples couldn’t drive out a demon

Rick Burgess Discusses Jesus’ Exorcism of a Demon

Rick Burgess, a presenter on Blaze TV, recalls feeling perplexed the first time he read about Jesus casting out a demon from a young boy, especially after the disciples failed at it. He shared his thoughts on a recent episode of “Strange Encounters,” admitting he struggled to understand why the disciples didn’t handle the situation differently. He thought there must be various types of demons with distinct weaknesses, and he was puzzled about the disciples’ lack of knowledge regarding this.

Many interpretations suggest that demons rank differently in power, implying that certain demons might need specific approaches. However, Rick contends that this perspective misses a crucial point. The real issue for the disciples wasn’t about strategies but rather about independence from Jesus’ authority.

According to the Gospel accounts in Matthew, Mark, and Luke, Jesus found his disciples in a contentious argument with religious leaders after they failed to exorcise a demon from a boy who was mute and suffering from violent convulsions. The boy’s father famously expressed his mixed faith: “I believe; help my unbelief” (Mark 9:24). Following this, Jesus managed to expel the demon and return the boy to health. Later, the disciples were frustrated with themselves for not being able to perform the exorcism, something they had done successfully before.

Jesus told them, “This kind can come out only through prayer” (Mark 9:29, noting that some manuscripts include “and fasting”). Yet, Rick argues that this doesn’t suggest that each demon requires distinct tactics.

He believes that the disciples had shifted their mindset and began to see themselves as the ones performing the exorcisms instead of recognizing that it was Jesus who had the authority. “They thought they could take credit for casting out demons when in reality, it was Jesus casting them out,” Rick explains.

He emphasizes that even humans rely on Jesus’ power to facilitate such acts. “We don’t have the strength to cast out demons on our own; we need Jesus for that,” he continues, pointing out that even the most powerful angels depend on Jesus’ authority when engaging with evil.

He references the story of Jude, where the Archangel Michael confronts Satan over Moses’ body. Instead of rebuking Satan with authority of his own, Michael simply states, “The Lord rebukes you!” This illustrates, Rick argues, how reliance on Jesus is vital in these spiritual battles.

He believes the disciples should have approached the situation by invoking Jesus’ name and power when attempting to exorcise the demon. “They lost sight of where their abilities came from and started thinking they were capable on their own,” Rick adds. Jesus’ message to them was clear: they needed to refocus on prayer and fasting, turning their eyes back to Him.