"This kind does not come out except by prayer and fasting" i

The phrase **"This kind does not come out except by prayer and fasting"** is a powerful teaching from Jesus Christ found in the Bible, specifically in **Matthew 17:21** and **Mark 9:29** (though some translations may not include this verse). It appears in the context of Jesus healing a boy possessed by a demon after the disciples were unable to do so.

Here is an outline and a possible sermon based on this teaching:

### **Title**: "The Power of Prayer and Fasting"

### **Scripture Reading**:

- **Matthew 17:14-21**

- **Mark 9:14-29**

### **Introduction**:

In this passage, a father brings his son to Jesus after the disciples were unable to cast out a demon that was tormenting him. Jesus rebukes the demon, and it leaves the boy. When the disciples later ask why they couldn't cast it out, Jesus replies: **“This kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.”**

### **Main Points**:

#### **1. A Recognized Need: The Powerlessness of the Disciples**

- The disciples had previously been given authority to cast out demons (Matthew 10:1), yet they found themselves unable to heal the boy.

- **Application**: Sometimes, despite our spiritual experiences and past successes, we encounter situations where we feel powerless. This story shows us that spiritual battles often require a deeper commitment.

#### **2. Faith as the Foundation**:

- In **Matthew 17:20**, Jesus highlights the lack of faith, saying, **“If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can move mountains.”**

- **True faith** is not about quantity but quality—it's about a deep trust in God’s power, not in our own abilities.

- **Application**: Do we sometimes rely on our own strength or past experiences rather than on God? Genuine faith focuses entirely on God and His power.

#### **3. The Role of Prayer and Fasting**:

- Jesus reveals a key spiritual truth: **“This kind does not come out except by prayer and fasting.”**

- **Prayer** is a direct connection with God, a way to align our will with His and draw upon His strength.

- **Fasting** is a discipline that helps us focus on God, denying our flesh to seek a deeper spiritual connection.

- **Application**: In challenging times, are we seeking God earnestly through prayer? Are we setting aside distractions to fast and focus on His presence?

- **Illustration**: Just as an athlete prepares rigorously for a competition, fasting and prayer prepare us spiritually for intense spiritual battles.

#### **4. Overcoming "This Kind" in Our Lives**:

- **"This kind"** refers to spiritual challenges that are particularly stubborn or difficult—whether it’s a habit, a stronghold, or a difficult situation.

- Jesus teaches that some spiritual battles require more than just our regular efforts—they demand a deeper level of spiritual discipline and dependence on God.

- **Practical Examples**:

- **Addictions** or habitual sins that seem impossible to break

- **Deep-seated unforgiveness** or bitterness

- **Generational curses** or patterns that affect families

- **Persistent prayers** for unsaved loved ones or impossible situations

- **Encouragement**: Through prayer and fasting, we invite God’s supernatural power to intervene in our lives and break strongholds.

#### **5. Jesus' Example**:

- Jesus Himself practiced prayer and fasting, especially before significant moments in His ministry (e.g., His 40 days in the wilderness).

- He modeled the importance of spiritual discipline, showing that even the Son of God depended on these practices.

### **Conclusion**:

- **Call to Action**: As followers of Christ, we are invited to step into deeper spiritual discipline. We are called to pray with expectation and fast with purpose, knowing that some battles are only won through this deeper pursuit of God.

- **Encouragement**: No matter how big the challenge is—how entrenched "this kind" seems—God has given us the tools through prayer and fasting to overcome it.

### **Application Questions**:

1. What challenges in your life might be a "this kind" situation that requires prayer and fasting?

2. Are there areas where you need to deepen your faith and reliance on God?

3. When was the last time you earnestly sought God through fasting and prayer for a breakthrough?

### **Prayer**:

Ask the congregation to reflect on areas in their lives where they need breakthrough and to commit to a season of prayer and fasting. Pray for God’s strength and the Holy Spirit’s guidance as they seek His presence.

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This sermon emphasizes the importance of deep spiritual disciplines and faith in facing difficult spiritual challenges. It invites the congregation to consider how they can apply prayer and fasting to overcome the "this kind" moments in their own lives.