Book of Matthew - Chapter 17 - Verse 15

The verse "Lord, have mercy on my son: for he is a lunatic, and sore vexed: for ofttimes he falleth into the fire, and oft into the water." from the book of Matthew, chapter 17, verse 15, portrays a desperate father seeking help for his son who is suffering from a condition that causes him to have seizures. The term "lunatic" in this context refers to someone who is affected by seizures, which were often believed to be related to the phases of the moon. The father's plea for mercy reflects his deep concern for his son's well-being, as the seizures put the boy in dangerous situations, such as falling into fire or water. This passage highlights the father's faith in Jesus' ability to heal his son and demonstrates the power of faith in seeking divine intervention. It serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking help and guidance from God in times of distress and turning to Him for mercy and healing.

When examining the theological interpretation of this verse, it is crucial to understand the context in which it is situated. Here, a father comes to Jesus seeking help for his son who is described as a "lunatic" and is afflicted by a spirit that causes him to fall into fire and water. The word "lunatic" in the original Greek text carries the connotation of someone who is suffering from a severe mental or physical illness. In this passage, the father's plea for mercy reflects a deep sense of desperation and urgency, underscoring the severity of his son's condition. This story highlights Jesus' compassion and power as he ultimately heals the boy, demonstrating his authority over both physical and spiritual afflictions. Through this miraculous act, Jesus reveals himself as the true source of healing and hope for all who come to him in faith.