Mark 9:21

21 And he asked his father how long it was since this had been happening to him. And he said, "From childhood.

Mark 9:21 Meaning and Commentary

Mark 9:21

And he asked his father
As he lay rolling about in this miserable condition, that the length and stubbornness of his disorder might be known, and so the cure the more remarkable, and appear the more expressive of his divine power and goodness:

how long is it ago since this came unto him?
since this evil spirit entered into him, and these disorders have attended him?

and he said of a child;
or "from his infancy"; so that it was not for any actual sin that he had committed, that this sore affiction came upon him; and yet he could not be without sin, since it was not agreeable to the justice, mercy, and goodness of God, to afflict, or suffer to be afflicted, one that is innocent; and therefore must be tainted with original sin, which is the source and spring of all afflictions, calamities and judgments.

Mark 9:21 In-Context

19 And he answered them [and] said, "O unbelieving generation! {How long} will I be with you? {How long} must I put up with you? Bring him to me!"

20 And they brought him to him. And [when he] saw him, the spirit immediately convulsed him, and falling on the ground, he began to roll around, foaming at the mouth.

21 And he asked his father how long it was since this had been happening to him. And he said, "From childhood.

22 And often it has thrown him both into fire and into water, in order that it could destroy him. But if you are able [to do] anything, have compassion on us [and] help us!"

23 But Jesus said to him, "If you are able! All [things] [are] possible for the one who believes!"