How does John 9:35 demonstrate Jesus' concern for the spiritually marginalized? Setting the Scene John 9 records Jesus healing a man born blind. After the miracle, the man is interrogated and ultimately expelled by the Pharisees. The religious establishment, rather than rejoicing, rejects him. Into that rejection, verse 35 steps like a bright light. Scripture for Focus “Jesus heard that they had thrown him out, and when He found him, He asked, ‘Do you believe in the Son of Man?’ ” (John 9:35) Key Observations • Jesus tracks the man’s situation—“Jesus heard.” He is aware when people are mistreated or pushed aside. • He takes initiative—“when He found him.” The formerly blind man does not hunt for Jesus; Jesus seeks him out. • His first concern is spiritual—“Do you believe…?” Physical sight mattered, yet Jesus moves straight to eternal matters. • He offers personal connection—His question invites relationship, not ritual or rule-keeping. Contrast with the Religious Leaders • The Pharisees emphasized conformity (John 9:16, 34); Jesus emphasizes belief. • They cast out; He gathers in (cf. John 6:37). • They demand explanations; He extends revelation (John 9:36-38). Patterns in Jesus’ Ministry to the Marginalized • Luke 19:10—“For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” Same verb “seek” underscores His pursuit. • Mark 2:17—“It is not the healthy who need a physician, but the sick.” • Matthew 11:28—“Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Old Testament Echoes • Isaiah 42:3—“A bruised reed He will not break.” Jesus embodies this prophecy in His tender pursuit. • Psalm 34:18—“The LORD is near to the brokenhearted.” New Testament Affirmations • 1 Corinthians 1:26-29—God chooses the lowly and despised. • James 2:5—God has “chosen the poor in this world to be rich in faith.” Practical Takeaways • Jesus notices every rejection His people experience. • He personally pursues those pushed to the edges. • He always directs the conversation toward saving faith. • Believers today are called to mirror His pursuit, valuing people the world (or religion) discards. • No one is too insignificant to be sought, known, and invited into life-changing belief in the Son of Man. |
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