Mark 9:23 (KJV)

What does Mark 9:23 mean?

In Mark 9:23, Jesus tells a father who has asked for help that belief is central to his request. In the KJV wording, Jesus says that all things are possible for the person who believes.

The father has brought his son, who is troubled by a spirit. After the father asks Jesus for help “if thou canst,” Jesus responds, “If thou canst believe.” The exchange shifts attention from the father’s question about Jesus’ ability to the father’s own belief.

The Greek behind Mark 9:23

• “believeth” — πιστεύω (pisteuō): This word carries the sense of believing or trusting. Here the wording points to the one who believes, rather than describing belief as a single statement.
• “possible” — δυνατός (dynatos): This word means able or possible. It is related to the idea of being able in the father’s “if thou canst,” linking Jesus’ answer to the father’s request.

Why Mark 9:23 matters

• The father’s belief is shown as mixed with doubt. In the next verse he cries, “Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief,” giving a candid answer to Jesus’ words.
• The immediate request concerns the father’s son. “All things are possible” comes in a conversation about the boy’s need, and the account continues with Jesus freeing him from the spirit.
• The wider scene also includes the disciples’ inability to help. Their earlier failure forms part of the setting for the father’s uncertainty when he approaches Jesus.