What role does fear play in the parents' response in John 9:22? Setting the Scene • Jesus has just healed a man who was born blind (John 9:1–7). • The Pharisees open an official investigation, summoning the formerly blind man’s parents (John 9:18–19). • John 9:22 explains their response: “His 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.” What Fear Does in John 9:22 • Fear dictates their words. Instead of affirming what they surely knew—that Jesus gave their son sight—they dodge the question: “Ask him; he is of age” (John 9:21). • Fear aims at self-preservation. Being “put out of the synagogue” meant social, religious, and economic exile. • Fear silences testimony. Their firsthand knowledge of Jesus’ power is muzzled by concern for consequences. • Fear exposes divided loyalties. They value acceptance by religious authorities over openly honoring the One who healed their son. Why Their Fear Is Significant • It reveals the powerful grip of man-made systems. The synagogue was the center of Jewish life; losing it felt like losing everything. • It contrasts with the boldness of their son, who later declares, “If this man were not from God, He could do no such thing” (John 9:33). • It underscores the cost of discipleship foreshadowed by Jesus: some will “love praise from men more than praise from God” (John 12:43). Scriptural Echoes of the Fear of Man • John 7:13: “Yet no one would speak publicly about Him for fear of the Jews.” • Proverbs 29:25: “The fear of man is a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is set securely on high.” • John 12:42–43: beleivers among the leaders kept silent “for fear of the Pharisees.” Faith’s Antidote to Fear • Matthew 10:28: “Do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul.” • Acts 4:19–20: Peter and John choose obedience to God over threats. • 2 Timothy 1:7: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.” • 1 John 4:18: “There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear.” Key Takeaways for Today • Fear of human rejection can mute the clearest evidence of God’s work. • Social or religious pressure remains a powerful force, but Scripture calls believers to courageous confession of Christ. • When confronted with a choice between approval of people and allegiance to Jesus, faith must overrule fear. |
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