Matthew 17:21 is not removed from most Bibles; rather, it is absent from certain ancient Greek manuscripts that form the basis for many modern translations. This verse, which speaks of a type of demon only being cast out by prayer, is found in some later manuscripts but is missing from earlier, more authoritative ones.

Understanding the Absence of Matthew 17:21 in Some Bibles

The question of why Matthew 17:21 appears in some Bibles but not others is a common point of confusion for many readers. The key to understanding this lies in the complex process of Bible translation and the textual evidence available to scholars. It’s not a matter of deliberate removal for theological reasons, but rather a reflection of the different manuscript traditions that translators rely upon.

The Textual Basis of Bible Translation

Modern Bible translations are based on the original Greek texts of the New Testament. Scholars meticulously compare thousands of ancient manuscripts to determine the most accurate wording. These manuscripts vary in age, with some being significantly older and therefore considered more reliable.

The text of Matthew 17:21 reads: "But this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting."

Manuscript Variations and Their Impact

The most influential Greek New Testament text used by many translators is the Textus Receptus (Received Text), which was compiled in the 16th century. However, since that time, many older and more authoritative Greek manuscripts have been discovered and studied.

When comparing these older manuscripts, scholars noticed that Matthew 17:21 is absent from many of them. This includes crucial early texts like the Codex Vaticanus and the Codex Sinaiticus. These older manuscripts are generally considered to represent the text as it was written closer to the time of the apostles.

Why Older Manuscripts Are Prioritized

The practice of textual criticism prioritizes readings found in the oldest and most numerous manuscripts. This is because older documents are less likely to have been altered or corrupted over time. The absence of a verse in these early witnesses leads many translators to omit it from their versions.

This doesn’t necessarily mean the verse is "wrong," but rather that its inclusion in the original text is less certain. Some scholars believe it may have been added later by scribes, perhaps as a marginal note that was eventually incorporated into the main text.

Translations and Their Manuscript Choices

Different translation committees make different decisions based on their assessment of the available textual evidence.

• Bibles that include Matthew 17:21 often base their translation on the Textus Receptus or other later manuscript traditions. Examples might include some older King James Version translations or certain paraphrases.
• Bibles that omit Matthew 17:21 typically rely on the consensus of the oldest Greek manuscripts. Prominent examples include the New International Version (NIV), the English Standard Version (ESV), and the New American Standard Bible (NASB). These translations may sometimes include the verse in a footnote, acknowledging its presence in some manuscripts.

This difference in manuscript preference is a primary reason for the variation. It’s a scholarly decision based on evaluating the historical evidence for the biblical text.

Theological Implications and Interpretations

While the absence of Matthew 17:21 is a textual issue, some readers wonder if it has theological implications. The core message of the passage—that faith and dependence on God are crucial for overcoming spiritual challenges—remains intact even without this specific verse.

The Power of Prayer and Faith

The context of Matthew 17 involves Jesus’ disciples failing to cast out a demon. Jesus rebukes them for their "little faith." The subsequent verses, including the debated Matthew 17:21, emphasize the need for prayer and reliance on God’s power.

Even in translations that omit the verse, the preceding and succeeding verses still convey this message. For instance, Matthew 17:20 states, "He said to them, ‘Because of your little faith. For truly, I say to you, if you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, "Move from here to there," and it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you.’" This verse powerfully underscores the importance of faith.

Understanding Different Bible Versions

It is helpful for readers to understand that different Bible versions are based on different textual traditions and translation philosophies. This is why you might find slight variations in wording or even the inclusion or exclusion of certain verses.

Knowing the textual basis of your chosen Bible can help you understand these differences. Most modern, scholarly translations prioritize the oldest available manuscripts.

People Also Ask

### Why is Matthew 17:21 missing from the NIV?

The New International Version (NIV) omits Matthew 17:21 because its translators follow the consensus of the oldest and most reliable ancient Greek manuscripts. These early manuscripts, such as the Codex Vaticanus and Codex Sinaiticus, do not contain this verse. The NIV translators prioritize readings supported by the earliest textual evidence.

### Is Matthew 17:21 a real Bible verse?

Matthew 17:21 is considered a real Bible verse in the sense that it appears in some ancient manuscripts and is included in certain Bible translations, particularly those based on later Greek texts like the Textus Receptus. However, its authenticity and inclusion in the original text are debated due to its absence in many older, authoritative manuscripts.

### What does Matthew 17:21 mean?

Matthew 17:21, where found, states, "But this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting." It teaches that certain spiritual strongholds or demonic oppressions require a deeper level of spiritual discipline, prayer, and reliance on God’s power for deliverance. It emphasizes that not all challenges are overcome by ordinary faith alone, but sometimes require intensified spiritual effort.

### Which Bibles include Matthew 17:21?

Bibles that are based on the Textus Receptus or similar later Greek manuscript traditions are more likely to include Matthew 17:21. Some older versions of the King James Version (KJV) and certain other translations might contain it. However, most modern scholarly translations, like the ESV, NIV, and NASB, omit it from the main text, often noting it in a footnote.

Conclusion: Navigating Textual Differences in Scripture

The variation in the inclusion of Matthew 17:21 across different Bibles is a fascinating aspect of biblical scholarship. It highlights the diligent work of textual critics and translators in preserving and conveying the Word of God as accurately as possible.

Ultimately, whether a particular translation includes Matthew 17:21 or not, the overarching message of the power of faith and prayer in overcoming obstacles remains a central theme throughout the Gospels. Understanding these textual differences can enrich your appreciation for the Bible’s transmission history.

If you’re interested in learning more about how Bibles are translated, you might want to explore the topic of textual criticism or read about the **manuscript