Jesus Heals the Man Born Blind 1Now as Jesus was passing by, He saw a man blind from birth, 2and His disciples asked Him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” 3Jesus answered, “Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but this happened so that the works of God would be displayed in him. 4While it is daytime, we must doa the works of Him who sent Me. Night is coming, when no one can work. 5While I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” 6When Jesus had said this, He spit on the ground, made some mud, and applied it to the man’s eyes. 7Then He told him, “Go, wash in the Pool of Siloam” (which means “Sent”). So the man went and washed, and came back seeing. 8At this, his neighbors and those who had formerly seen him begging began to ask, “Isn’t this the man who used to sit and beg?” 9Some claimed that he was, but others said, “No, he just looks like him.” But the man kept saying, “I am the one.” 10“How then were your eyes opened?” they asked. 11He answered, “The man they call Jesus made some mud and anointed my eyes, and He told me to go to Siloam and wash. So I went and washed and received my sight.” 12“Where is He?” they asked. The Pharisees Investigate the Healing 13They brought to the Pharisees the man who had been blind. 14Now the day on which Jesus had made the mud and opened his eyes was a Sabbath. 15So the Pharisees also asked him how he had received his sight. The man answered, “He put mud on my eyes, and I washed, and now I can see.” 16Because of this, some of the Pharisees said, “This man is not from God, for He does not keep the Sabbath.” But others said, “How can a sinful man perform such signs?” And there was division among them. 17So once again they asked the man who had been blind, “What do you say about Him, since it was your eyes He opened?” “He is a prophet,” the man replied. 18The Jews still did not believe that the man had been blind and had received his sight until they summoned his parents 19and asked, “Is this your son, the one you say was born blind? So how is it that he can now see?” 20His parents answered, “We know he is our son, and we know he was born blind. 21But how he can now see or who opened his eyes, we do not know. Ask him. He is old enough to speak for himself.” 22His parents said this because they were afraid of the Jews. For the Jews had already determined that anyone who confessed Jesus as the Christ would be put out of the synagogue. 23That was why his parents said, “He is old enough. Ask him.” 24So a second time they called for the man who had been blind and said, “Give glory to God! We know that this man is a sinner.” 25He answered, “Whether He is a sinner I do not know. There is one thing I do know: I was blind, but now I see!” 26“What did He do to you?” they asked. “How did He open your eyes?” 27He replied, “I already told you, and you did not listen. Why do you want to hear it again? Do you also want to become His disciples?” 28Then they heaped insults on him and said, “You are His disciple; we are disciples of Moses. 29We know that God spoke to Moses, but we do not know where this man is from.” 30“That is remarkable indeed!” the man said. “You do not know where He is from, and yet He opened my eyes. 31We know that God does not listen to sinners, but He does listen to the one who worships Him and does His will. 32Never before has anyone heard of opening the eyes of a man born blind. 33If this man were not from God, He could do no such thing.” 34They replied, “You were born in utter sin, and you are instructing us?” And they threw him out. Spiritual Blindness 35When Jesus heard that they had thrown him out, He found the man and said, “Do you believe in the Son of Manb?” 36“Who is He, Sir?” he replied. “Tell me so that I may believe in Him.” 37“You have already seen Him,” Jesus answered. “He is the One speaking with you.” 38“Lord, I believe,” he said. And he worshiped Jesus. 39Then Jesus declared, “For judgment I have come into this world, so that the blind may see and those who see may become blind.”c 40Some of the Pharisees who were with Him heard this, and they asked Him, “Are we blind too?” 41“If you were blind,” Jesus replied, “you would not be guilty of sin. But since you claim you can see, your guilt remains.” Footnotes: 4 a BYZ and TR I must do 35 b BYZ and TR the Son of God 39 c Literally so that those not seeing may see and those seeing may become blind. Some manuscripts do not include 38“Lord, I believe.”... 39Then Jesus declared. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub  John 9 Summary Spiritual BlindnessVerses 1–5 – Purpose in Blindness and Light Verses 6–7 – Sign at Siloam Verses 8–12 – Neighborhood Reaction Verses 13–17 – First Pharisaic Inquiry Verses 18–23 – Parents Pressured Verses 24–34 – Bold Testimony Verses 35–38 – Spiritual Sight Granted Verses 39–41 – Verdict on Blindness John 9 is a remarkable chapter that presents an account of Jesus healing a man born blind. This miracle not only demonstrates Jesus' power over physical afflictions but also serves as a metaphor for spiritual blindness. The narrative unfolds through various reactions to the miracle, ultimately leading to a profound exploration of faith, perception, and spiritual understanding. Historical Setting John places this account in Jerusalem not long after the Feast of Tabernacles (John 7–10). Pilgrims thronged the city, and public debate about Jesus was intense. Pharisaic influence over synagogue life meant that expulsion carried real social and economic loss. The Pool of Siloam: Archaeology and Symbolism Excavations in 2004 uncovered the first–century Pool of Siloam at the southern end of Hezekiah’s Tunnel. Pilgrims used the pool’s water in festival ceremonies—background that makes Jesus’ command fitting. “Siloam” means “Sent,” echoing Jesus’ own identity as the One sent by the Father (John 9:7; 20:21). Sin, Suffering, and the Works of God • Job 1–2 and Luke 13:1-5 show that personal calamity is not always tied to personal sin. • Exodus 4:11 records God saying He makes the blind; His sovereign purposes can include disability. • Here the man’s blindness becomes the stage for God’s glory, prefiguring how the cross—another apparent tragedy—will showcase God’s saving power. Sabbath Controversy • The Law forbade ordinary work (Exodus 20:8-11). By Jesus’ day, rabbinic tradition added 39 categories of forbidden acts, including kneading (making mud). • Jesus confronts man-made restrictions, teaching that “it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath” (Matthew 12:12). His action fulfills the Sabbath’s intent: restoration. The Method: Mud and Water • Spittle and clay were common folk remedies; Jesus employs them but connects healing to faith and obedience. • The physical act parallels Genesis 2:7 where God formed man from dust; the Creator again touches clay to give sight. Witness and Testimony in John • “We must do the works of Him who sent Me” (John 9:4) shifts from singular to plural—disciples share in the mission. • The man’s progression—calling Jesus “the man,” “prophet,” then “Lord”—models growing witness (cf. John 4:42). Spiritual Sight vs. Spiritual Blindness • Isaiah 42:6-7 foretells the Servant opening blind eyes. • Psalm 146:8 attributes sight-giving to the LORD. • The healed man embodies Isaiah’s promise, while the Pharisees fulfill Isaiah 6:9-10—seeing yet not perceiving. Jesus, the Son of Man • Daniel 7:13-14 presents the Son of Man receiving everlasting dominion. • In John 9:35-38 Jesus claims that title and accepts worship, underscoring His divine authority. Excommunication and Courage • Verse 22 notes the threat of being “put out of the synagogue.” Archaeological finds at Masada record synagogue life built around communal identity; loss of it meant isolation. • The healed man chooses loyalty to Jesus over social security, echoing Revelation 12:11—overcomers love not their lives even unto death. Light Motif in Scripture • Genesis 1:3—God’s first creative word is “Let there be light.” • Isaiah 9:2—people walking in darkness see a great light. • John 8:12—Jesus says, “I am the light of the world,” immediately before this sign, then proves it by giving sight. Connections to Isaiah’s Servant • Isaiah 35:5 reports that in the coming salvation “the eyes of the blind will be opened.” • Isaiah 42:19 challenges, “Who is blind but My servant?”—a rebuke Israel’s leaders now personify. Practical Takeaways • Obeying simple instructions—even those that defy custom—opens the door to God’s power. • Giving honest testimony about what Jesus has done is powerful apologetics: “I was blind, but now I see.” • Religious privilege can dull spiritual perception; humility keeps eyes open. • Jesus seeks out those cast aside and welcomes worship from anyone who turns to Him. Connections to Additional Scriptures Romans 8:28And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose. This verse reinforces the idea that God uses our circumstances for His glory and our good. Isaiah 42:7 To open the eyes of the blind, to bring prisoners out of the dungeon and those sitting in darkness out from the prison house. This prophecy points to the Messiah's role in bringing both physical and spiritual sight. 2 Corinthians 4:4-6 These verses discuss the spiritual blindness of unbelievers and the light of the gospel that reveals the glory of Christ. Teaching Points The Purpose of SufferingJohn 9:3 - Neither this man nor his parents sinned, said Jesus, but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him. Jesus clarifies that the man's blindness was not a result of sin but an opportunity for God's glory to be revealed. Jesus as the Light of the World John 9:5 - While I am in the world, I am the light of the world. Jesus emphasizes His role as the spiritual light that brings understanding and truth to a darkened world. Obedience and Faith John 9:7 - Go, He told him, wash in the Pool of Siloam (which means Sent). So the man went and washed, and came back seeing. The blind man's obedience to Jesus' command demonstrates faith, leading to his physical and spiritual transformation. Spiritual Blindness vs. Physical Blindness The Pharisees' inability to recognize Jesus as the Messiah highlights their spiritual blindness, contrasting with the physical healing of the blind man who gains spiritual insight. Confession of Faith John 9:38 - Then the man said, 'Lord, I believe,' and he worshiped Him. The healed man's journey culminates in a confession of faith and worship, recognizing Jesus as Lord. Practical Applications Trust in God's SovereigntyWhen facing trials, remember that God can use our circumstances to display His glory and work in our lives. Seek Spiritual Insight Prioritize spiritual understanding and discernment over mere physical or worldly perspectives. Obey God's Word Like the blind man, act in faith and obedience to God's instructions, trusting in His promises. Share Your Testimony Be bold in sharing how Jesus has transformed your life, just as the healed man testified to the Pharisees. Worship Jesus as Lord Recognize Jesus' authority in your life and respond with worship and devotion. People 1. JesusThe central figure in the chapter, Jesus performs the miracle of healing the man born blind. He is depicted as compassionate and authoritative, demonstrating His divine power and challenging the spiritual blindness of the religious leaders. 2. The Man Born Blind The recipient of Jesus' miracle, this man is healed of his blindness. His journey from physical blindness to spiritual insight is a key theme in the chapter. He becomes a bold witness to the work of Jesus, despite facing opposition. 3. The Disciples They are present with Jesus at the beginning of the chapter and ask Him about the cause of the man's blindness, reflecting a common belief of the time that suffering was directly linked to sin. 4. The Neighbors and Those Who Had Seen Him Before These individuals are familiar with the man as a beggar and are initially skeptical about his healing. Their questioning reflects the community's curiosity and confusion about the miracle. 5. The Pharisees Religious leaders who investigate the healing. They are divided in their opinions about Jesus, with some questioning His adherence to the Sabbath and others recognizing the significance of the miracle. Their interactions with the healed man reveal their spiritual blindness and resistance to Jesus' authority. 6. The Parents of the Man Born Blind They are brought in by the Pharisees to verify their son's identity and the fact of his blindness from birth. Out of fear of the Jewish leaders, they avoid making any statements about Jesus, indicating the social and religious pressures of the time. 7. Some of the Jews This group, likely including the Pharisees, is involved in the investigation and questioning of the healed man. They represent the broader Jewish community's response to Jesus' miracles and teachings. In the original Greek text, terms like "Pharisees" (Φαρισαῖοι) and "Jews" (Ἰουδαῖοι) are used to denote specific groups within the Jewish religious and social structure, highlighting the tensions between Jesus and the established religious authorities. The chapter emphasizes themes of spiritual insight versus blindness, faith, and the identity of Jesus as the Light of the World. Places 1. JerusalemWhile not explicitly named in John 9, the events occur in Jerusalem, as the context of the surrounding chapters indicates that Jesus is in the city for the Feast of Tabernacles (John 7:2, 10). Jerusalem is the central city of Jewish worship and the location of the Temple. 2. The Pool of Siloam John 9:7 states, "Then He told him, 'Go, wash in the Pool of Siloam' (which means Sent). So the man went and washed, and came back seeing." The Pool of Siloam is a significant site in Jerusalem, used for ritual purification. The name "Siloam" comes from the Hebrew root "שָׁלַח" (shalach), meaning "to send," which is reflected in the text as "Sent." Events 1. Jesus Encounters a Man Born BlindJesus and His disciples come across a man who has been blind from birth. The disciples ask Jesus whether the man's blindness is due to his own sin or his parents' sin. Jesus responds that it is neither, but that the works of God might be displayed in him (John 9:1-3). 2. Jesus Heals the Blind Man Jesus declares Himself the light of the world and proceeds to heal the man. He spits on the ground, makes mud with the saliva, and applies it to the man's eyes. Jesus instructs the man to wash in the Pool of Siloam, which means "Sent." The man obeys and returns with his sight restored (John 9:4-7). 3. Neighbors Question the Healed Man The man's neighbors and those who had seen him begging are astonished and question whether he is the same person. The man confirms his identity and explains that Jesus healed him. They inquire about Jesus' whereabouts, but the man does not know (John 9:8-12). 4. Pharisees Investigate the Healing The healed man is brought to the Pharisees, as the healing occurred on the Sabbath. The Pharisees question him, and a division arises among them. Some claim Jesus is not from God because He does not keep the Sabbath, while others wonder how a sinner could perform such signs (John 9:13-16). 5. The Healed Man's Testimony The Pharisees ask the man for his opinion about Jesus, and he declares Jesus to be a prophet. The Jews then doubt the man's previous blindness and summon his parents for confirmation (John 9:17-18). 6. Parents Testify About Their Son The parents confirm that the man is their son and that he was born blind, but they avoid commenting on how he gained his sight, fearing repercussions from the Jewish leaders who had agreed to expel anyone acknowledging Jesus as the Christ (John 9:19-23). 7. The Healed Man's Boldness The Pharisees summon the man again, urging him to give glory to God and denounce Jesus as a sinner. The man boldly asserts his ignorance of Jesus' sinfulness but affirms the miracle of his newfound sight. He challenges the Pharisees' disbelief and questions their motives (John 9:24-27). 8. The Pharisees' Rejection The Pharisees revile the man, claiming allegiance to Moses and dismissing Jesus. The man argues that Jesus must be from God, as no one has ever heard of opening the eyes of a man born blind. The Pharisees, angered by his response, expel him from the synagogue (John 9:28-34). 9. Jesus Reveals Himself to the Healed Man Jesus finds the man after his expulsion and asks if he believes in the Son of Man. The man expresses his willingness to believe and asks who the Son of Man is. Jesus reveals Himself, and the man worships Him (John 9:35-38). 10. Jesus' Teaching on Spiritual Blindness Jesus comments on the spiritual blindness of those who claim to see. The Pharisees, overhearing, question if they are blind too. Jesus responds that if they were blind, they would not be guilty of sin, but their claim to see makes them accountable (John 9:39-41). Topics 1. The Man Born Blind (John 9:1-2)Jesus encounters a man who was blind from birth. The disciples ask whether the man's blindness was due to his own sin or his parents' sin, reflecting a common belief of the time. 2. Jesus Heals the Blind Man (John 9:3-7) Jesus explains that the man's blindness is an opportunity to display the works of God. He then heals the man by making mud with His saliva, applying it to the man's eyes, and instructing him to wash in the Pool of Siloam. The Greek word "Siloam" means "Sent," symbolizing Jesus as the one sent by God. 3. The Neighbors' Reaction (John 9:8-12) The neighbors and those who had seen the man begging are astonished and question whether he is the same person. The man confirms his identity and recounts how Jesus healed him. 4. The Pharisees Investigate the Healing (John 9:13-17) The healed man is brought to the Pharisees, who are divided over Jesus' actions, as He healed on the Sabbath. The Pharisees question the man, who declares Jesus to be a prophet. 5. The Parents' Testimony (John 9:18-23) The Pharisees summon the man's parents to verify his blindness from birth. Fearing repercussions, the parents confirm his blindness but avoid commenting on the healing, directing the Pharisees back to their son. 6. The Healed Man's Boldness (John 9:24-34) The Pharisees again question the healed man, urging him to denounce Jesus. The man boldly defends Jesus, stating that God does not listen to sinners, and marvels at the Pharisees' disbelief. The Pharisees respond by casting him out. 7. Spiritual Blindness (John 9:35-41) Jesus finds the man and reveals Himself as the Son of Man. The man believes and worships Jesus. Jesus speaks of spiritual blindness, indicating that those who claim to see are often blind to the truth. The Greek term "Son of Man" (υἱὸς τοῦ ἀνθρώπου) emphasizes Jesus' messianic role and divine authority. Themes 1. Divine Purpose in SufferingThe chapter begins with the disciples asking Jesus why a man was born blind. Jesus responds, "Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but this happened so that the works of God would be displayed in him" (John 9:3). This theme highlights the belief that suffering can serve a divine purpose, showcasing God's power and glory. The Greek word for "works" (ἔργα, erga) emphasizes the active manifestation of God's deeds. 2. Jesus as the Light of the World Jesus declares, "While I am in the world, I am the light of the world" (John 9:5). This theme underscores Jesus' role as the spiritual illumination for humanity, guiding them out of darkness. The Greek word for "light" (φῶς, phōs) signifies both physical and spiritual enlightenment. 3. Faith and Obedience The blind man demonstrates faith and obedience when he follows Jesus' instruction to wash in the Pool of Siloam, resulting in his healing (John 9:7). This theme emphasizes the importance of trusting and acting upon Jesus' words, which leads to transformation and blessing. 4. Spiritual Blindness vs. Physical Blindness The narrative contrasts physical blindness with spiritual blindness. The Pharisees, despite their physical sight, are depicted as spiritually blind due to their unbelief and rejection of Jesus (John 9:39-41). The Greek word for "blind" (τυφλός, typhlos) is used metaphorically to describe their lack of spiritual insight. 5. Testimony and Witness The healed man becomes a witness to Jesus' power, repeatedly testifying to the Pharisees about his healing (John 9:25). This theme highlights the role of personal testimony in proclaiming the works of God and the truth of Jesus' identity. 6. Division and Conflict The healing of the blind man leads to division among the Pharisees and conflict with the healed man and his family (John 9:16, 22). This theme reflects the divisive nature of Jesus' ministry and the challenges faced by those who follow Him. 7. Rejection and Acceptance The healed man experiences rejection from the religious leaders but acceptance by Jesus, who reveals Himself as the Son of Man (John 9:35-38). This theme illustrates the contrast between human rejection and divine acceptance, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and accepting Jesus' true identity. Answering Tough Questions 1. In John 9:1–7, how is it scientifically possible for mud and washing to restore sight? 2. In John 9:8–9, why does the crowd seem uncertain about recognizing the healed man? 3. In John 9:13–16, why would the Pharisees react so harshly if this account were verifiable? 4. In John 9:18–23, is there any historical or external evidence that confirms the parents’ testimony? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What is the significance of the disciples' question about sin and suffering in relation to present-day interpretations of adversity? 2. How does Jesus' answer to the disciples challenge common assumptions about the causes of suffering? 3. What does the healing of the blind man reveal about Jesus' power over physical afflictions? 4. How can the mixed reactions to the blind man's healing be seen in contemporary responses to miracles or transformative events? 5. In what ways does the healed man's testimony demonstrate courage and conviction? 6. How do the Pharisees' responses to the miracle reflect their spiritual blindness? 7. How does the blind man's interaction with the Pharisees develop his understanding of Jesus' identity? 8. What can we learn from the blind man's parents' response to the Pharisees' questioning? 9. How does the blind man’s expulsion from the synagogue reflect the cost of discipleship? 10. How does the healed man's confession of faith inspire your personal faith journey? 11. What does Jesus' discourse on spiritual blindness reveal about spiritual understanding and ignorance? 12. How does the chapter illuminate the concept of spiritual sight in the context of faith and doubt? 13. In what ways does the chapter encourage perseverance in faith amidst opposition and persecution? 14. How does Jesus' interaction with the Pharisees after the healing episode reveal His stance on self-righteousness? 15. Reflect on Jesus' metaphor of light and darkness. How does it relate to your understanding of His role in your life? 16. How does the Pharisees' refusal to acknowledge the miracle mirror contemporary rejection of spiritual truths? 17. How can the blind man's transformation from a passive recipient of a miracle to an active defender of faith inspire you in your spiritual journey? 18. What lessons does this chapter offer about the potential impacts of fear on faith? 19. How does this chapter challenge the traditional concepts of sin and divine punishment? 20. Reflect on the entire chapter. How does the story of the blind man influence your understanding of faith and spiritual transformation? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions |
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