How can John 9:24 inspire us to witness boldly in our communities? Setting the Scene John 9 recounts Jesus healing a man born blind. Religious leaders interrogate the man, trying to discredit Jesus. The tension peaks here: “So a second time they summoned the man who had been blind and said, ‘Give glory to God! We know that this man is a sinner.’” (John 9:24) What We Notice in John 9:24 • Religious pressure: Authorities demand the man agree Jesus is a sinner. • Call to “Give glory to God”: Ironically, the leaders ask for praise while denying the very One God sent. • Implicit challenge: Will the healed man cave or stand firm? Lessons for Bold Witness Today 1. The Gift That Cannot Be Denied • The man’s changed life is undeniable (John 9:25). • Our own salvation stories—freedom from sin, renewed mind, healed relationships—are concrete evidence God still works (2 Corinthians 5:17). • Sharing personal transformation disarms skeptics who debate doctrine but can’t argue with a living testimony. 2. Courage Amid Intimidation • Facing ridicule, the man refuses to compromise truth (John 9:27, 30–33). • Scripture promises courage for similar moments: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control” (2 Timothy 1:7). • Lean on the Spirit’s power; do not let social pressure mute the gospel (Acts 4:19–20). 3. Giving True Glory to God • Leaders claimed to honor God but rejected His Son. Real glory comes through confessing Christ openly (John 9:38; Philippians 2:11). • Every public testimony about Jesus directs praise to the Father (John 5:23). 4. Boldness Rooted in Conviction, Not Credentials • The healed man lacked formal training, yet spoke with authority (John 9:34). • God uses ordinary believers; boldness flows from knowing Jesus personally (Acts 4:13). • Don’t wait for perfection—share what you know right now. 5. Witnessing as Obedience, Not Debate • The man simply states facts: “One thing I do know: I was blind, but now I see” (John 9:25). • Our task: present the truth; the Spirit convicts hearts (John 16:8). • Avoid endless arguments—focus on Christ’s work and invitation (1 Peter 3:15–16). Practical Steps for Community Witness • Identify your “I was…, but now…” story; prepare it in two minutes. • Pray for one opportunity this week to share it. • When challenged, remember Romans 1:16—“I am not ashamed of the gospel.” • Partner with another believer for accountability and encouragement (Luke 10:1). • Saturate your mind with Scripture daily; confidence grows when truth is fresh in your heart (Colossians 3:16). Encouragement to Go Forth Like the formerly blind man, we too have experienced God’s transforming power. His story invites us to stand firm, speak plainly, and trust that simple, Spirit-filled testimony can shake skeptical minds and open blind eyes. |
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