How does John 9:40 challenge our understanding of spiritual blindness today? Setting the Scene “Some of the Pharisees who were with Him heard this and asked, ‘Are we blind too?’” (John 9:40) What the Pharisees Reveal • They witnessed an undeniable miracle (9:1-34) yet refused to admit Jesus’ divine authority. • Their question drips with irony; they assume sight while exposing blindness. • The issue is not physical eyes but hard hearts—self-confidence replacing humble faith. How Spiritual Blindness Manifests Today • Assuming moral superiority while ignoring personal sin (Romans 2:1-5). • Knowing biblical facts yet missing a relationship with Christ (James 1:22-24). • Redefining sin to fit cultural norms, treating God’s Word as optional (Isaiah 5:20). • Trusting traditions, institutions, or intellect more than the Savior (Colossians 2:8). • Refusing correction because “I already see” (Proverbs 12:15). The Challenge John 9:40 Poses 1. Recognition: Admit that blindness is possible even for the religiously active. 2. Examination: Let Scripture, not feelings, diagnose vision (Hebrews 4:12). 3. Humility: Approach Jesus as the only true Light (John 8:12); proud hearts stay dark. 4. Repentance: Turn from self-reliance to Spirit-opened eyes (Acts 26:18). 5. Witness: Live as once-blind people who now see, pointing others to the Healer (1 Peter 2:9). Living with Open Eyes • Daily prayerful reading of the Word keeps vision clear (Psalm 119:18). • Confession breaks up calloused blindness (1 John 1:9). • Obedience proves genuine sight (John 14:21). • Fellowship provides loving accountability (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Gratitude guards against pharisaic pride (Luke 18:13-14). Conclusion John 9:40 exposes the danger of assuming we see when, apart from Christ, we do not. True sight begins with humble surrender to the Light of the world and continues as His Word shapes our vision day by day. |
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