Verses 14-21
The exorcism of an epileptic boy 17:14-21 (cf. Mark 9:14-29; Luke 9:37-43 a)
The term "exorcism" means the action of exorcizing or expelling an evil spirit by adjuration or the performance of certain rites. In Jesus’ case this involved His authoritatively commanding a demon or demons to depart with no appeal to a higher authority or incantations, which are common in exorcisms that other people perform.
"The contrast between the glory of the Transfiguration and Jesus’ disciples’ tawdry unbelief (see Matthew 17:17) is part of the mounting tension that magnifies Jesus’ uniqueness as he moves closer to his passion and resurrection." [Note: Carson, "Matthew," p. 390.]
It also recalls Moses’ experience of descending Mt. Sinai only to find the Israelites failing by worshipping the golden calf (Exodus 32:15-20).
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