While Jesus, Peter, James and John were returning from the experience of the
Transfiguration, the rest of the disciples were trying to deal with a problem. A man had
brought his son to the other disciples to be healed – which they were unable to
accomplish. All the disciples had previously been able to cast out demons in Jesus’
name, but this one had them stumped. We are given the impression that the crowd
became impatient with them. Jesus’ response to the problem is to comment on “this
faithless generation,” and to wonder aloud how much longer he will be with them. He
apparently senses the lack of faith among the group.

After the disciples’ failure to heal his son, the man isn’t sure that Jesus himself will
manage it. His request is made with almost a shrug of the shoulders: “But if you can do
anything…” Jesus teasingly rebukes him, and bounces the question right back: “If you
can…” This puts the man on the spot. It’s now his turn to speak: “I believe; help my
unbelief!”

Jesus rebukes the spirit; it leaves the boy apparently dead, but Jesus “…lifted him
up, and he arose.” Both words are regular resurrection words in the New Testament.
When we face crises ourselves, pray with whatever faith we may have: “I believe;
help my unbelief!”