What does John 9:38 teach about recognizing Jesus' divine authority and lordship? Setting the Scene John 9 records Jesus giving sight to a man born blind. The miracle triggers growing clarity in the man’s heart about who Jesus is, culminating in verse 38. Key Verse “Then the man said, ‘Lord, I believe,’ and he worshiped Him.” (John 9:38) What Recognition Looks Like • “Lord” – He addresses Jesus with a title of authority, placing Jesus above every other voice. • “I believe” – He openly confesses personal faith, trusting Jesus beyond what eyes can see. • “He worshiped Him” – He bows in adoration; worship is reserved for God alone (Deuteronomy 6:13; Revelation 19:10). By accepting worship, Jesus affirms His divine identity. Evidence of Divine Authority in the Passage • Only the Creator can grant sight to congenital blindness (Exodus 4:11). • The healed man moves from calling Jesus “a prophet” (v.17) to “Lord.” Revelation grows with obedience. • Jesus earlier identified Himself as “the Son of Man” (v.35–37), echoing Daniel 7:13–14 where the Son of Man receives universal dominion. Why Worship Matters • Scripture forbids worship of anyone but God (Isaiah 42:8). • When Thomas later exclaims, “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:28), Jesus again receives worship. • Accepting worship distinguishes Jesus from angels (Revelation 22:8-9) and prophets (Acts 10:25-26). Living It Out Today • Acknowledge His rightful rule: call Him “Lord” in every sphere—thoughts, relationships, resources. • Express faith: publicly confess, “I believe,” anchoring trust in His finished work (Romans 10:9-10). • Worship without reservation: privately and corporately give Him the honor due His name (Psalm 29:2). • Obey what He reveals: the man acted on Jesus’ command to wash (John 9:7); obedience deepens revelation (John 14:21). • Witness to others: like the healed man who testified fearlessly (John 9:25), share how Jesus opened spiritual eyes. Supporting Scriptures • Matthew 14:33 – “Those who were in the boat worshiped Him, saying, ‘Truly You are the Son of God!’” • Philippians 2:9-11 – Every knee will bow and every tongue confess Jesus Christ is Lord. • Colossians 1:17-18 – He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. • Revelation 5:12-14 – Heaven’s chorus worships the Lamb forever. John 9:38 therefore teaches that recognizing Jesus’ divine authority and lordship involves confessing His supremacy, placing personal faith in Him, and responding with wholehearted worship—responses that Scripture consistently reserves for God alone. |
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