John 9
Outline
1-12 | Jesus Heals a man born blind
13-17 | The Jewish leaders question the man
18-23 | The Jewish leaders question the man’s parents
24-34 | The Jewish leaders question the man a second time
35-41 | Jesus Affirms His Deity
Reflections
The disciples ask about a man born blind, whether he or his parents sinned resulting in his blindness. Jesus responds.
John 9:3-5 NASB Jesus answered, “It was neither that this man sinned, nor his parents; but it was so that the works of God might be displayed in him. 4 We must work the works of Him who sent Me as long as it is day; night is coming when no one can work. 5 While I am in the world, I am the Light of the world.”
Not every sickness is the result of sin, some are opportunities for God to display His power, and all are opportunities for God to be glorified (see Job 1:21). The man’s defense of Jesus and His works is a good example of someone giving testimony to the truth of God’s work in a person’s life.
John 9:25 NASB He then answered, “Whether He is a sinner, I do not know; one thing I do know, that though I was blind, now I see.”
When the Jewish leaders vote to put the man out of the synagogue (excommunicate him), Jesus finds him. Upon finding him, Jesus reveals His true identity to now seeing man born blind.
John 9:35-38 NASB Jesus heard that they had put him out, and finding him, He said, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?” 36 He answered, “Who is He, Lord, that I may believe in Him?” 37 Jesus said to him, “You have both seen Him, and He is the one who is talking with you.” 38 And he said, “Lord, I believe.” And he worshiped Him.
Jesus is always seeking those who are marginalized by society, including the religious establishment, and seeks to restore them to God and Himself. We would do well to follow His example.
Lord, give us eyes to see Your true disciples and give us hearts filled with compassion for those in need. May Your will be done on earth as in heaven, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
