What can we learn about spiritual blindness from Matthew 26:3? Verse in Focus “Then the chief priests and elders of the people assembled in the courtyard of the high priest, whose name was Caiaphas.” (Matthew 26:3) Observations from the Courtyard • The most theologically trained men in Israel gather, not to worship, but to conspire. • The location is the high priest’s courtyard—a setting that should have radiated holiness, yet it becomes the staging ground for evil. • No question is raised about Jesus’ innocence; the verdict is assumed, revealing hearts already closed. Marks of Spiritual Blindness Displayed • Reliance on religious position rather than relationship with God (John 5:39-40). • Confidence in tradition over truth (Mark 7:6-8). • Fear of losing influence and control (John 11:48). • Plotting in secret, a hallmark of darkness (Ephesians 5:11-12). Roots Beneath the Blindness • Hardened hearts—Isaiah’s prophecy in Isaiah 6:9-10 is unfolding. • Satanic deception—“The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers” (2 Corinthians 4:4). • Willful unbelief—rejecting the obvious signs and teachings of Christ (Matthew 12:38-40). • Pride—“If you were blind, you would have no sin; but now you say, ‘We see,’ your sin remains” (John 9:41). Rippling Consequences • Moral inversion: calling evil good and good evil (Isaiah 5:20). • Increased hostility toward the truth (Acts 7:51-54). • Loss of discernment—even miracles will not persuade a blinded heart (Luke 16:31). • Ultimate judgment—“He has blinded their eyes and hardened their hearts” (John 12:40). Light for Our Own Hearts • Seek humility: “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6). • Saturate the mind with Scripture and obey it (Psalm 119:130). • Depend on the Spirit to open eyes (Ephesians 1:17-18). • Walk in the light you have—obedience brings deeper sight (John 7:17). |
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