Mark 9:23

“Jesus said unto him, if thou canst believe, etc..] As the man put an “if” on the power of Christ, Christ puts an “if” on the faith of the man; and tacitly suggests, that power was not wanting in himself, but faith in him; and should that cure not be performed, it would not be owing to any inability in him, but to his own incredulity. The Arabic version renders it, “what is this thy: saying, if thou canst do any thing?” What dost thou mean by it? Thou oughtest not to doubt of my power; there is no reason for it, after so many miracles wrought; upbraiding the man with his unbelief; and the Ethiopic version renders it thus, “because thou sayest, if thou canst”: wherefore to show that power was…”

“See this passage explained in the notes at Matthew 17:14-21. Mark 9:14 Questioning with them - Debating with the disciples, and attempting to confound them. This he saw as he came down from the mount. In his absence they had taken occasion to attempt to perplex and confound his followers. Mark 9:15 Were greatly amazed - Were astonished and surprised at his sudden appearance among them. Saluted him - Received him with the customary marks of affection and respect. It is probable that this was not by any “formal” manner of salutation, but by the “rush” of the multitude, and by hailing him as the Messiah. Mark 9:16 What question ye? - What is the subject of your inquiry or debate with the…”

“If thou canst believe - As if he had said, The thing does not turn on my power, but on thy faith. I can do all things: canst thou believe? Mark 9:24”

“9:23 Jesus challenged the man to believe in the power of God—Anything is possible if a person believes (see 11:22-24), while lack of faith can hinder God’s saving activity (see 6:5).”

“If: Mar 11:23; Ch2 20:20; Mat 17:20, Mat 21:21, Mat 21:22; Luk 17:6; Joh 4:48-50, Joh 11:40; Act 14:9; Heb 11:6 Mark 9:24”