Albert Barnes Commentary Matthew 17:16

"And I brought him to thy disciples, and they could not cure him." — Matthew 17:16 (ASV)

And I brought him to your disciples, etc. That is, not to the apostles, for they had power over unclean spirits (Matthew 10:8), but to others of his followers who attempted to work miracles. It is probable that many of his disciples attempted this, who were not personal attendants on his ministry (Mark 9:38).