How should we respond to opposition when sharing our faith, as seen in John 9:28? Setting the Scene in John 9 John 9 tells of a man born blind whom Jesus healed. When the Pharisees questioned him, he stayed loyal to the truth about Jesus. Verse 28 records their reaction: “Then they heaped insults on him and said, ‘You are His disciple; we are disciples of Moses!’”. Their ridicule shows the kind of opposition believers can meet when sharing what Christ has done. What the Opposition Looked Like • Verbal abuse: “heaped insults” – open contempt, shaming language • Dismissal of testimony: they refused to weigh the man’s facts, choosing tradition over evidence • Self-righteous comparison: “we are disciples of Moses” – asserting superior spiritual pedigree • Hard-heartedness: even a clear miracle did not soften their stance Timeless Principles for Facing Opposition Today • Expect conflict – Jesus promised it (John 15:18-20). • Opposition often centers on pride and tradition rather than truth. • Personal testimony stands strong; no one can deny what Christ has done for you (John 9:25). • Loyalty to Jesus is worth more than human approval (Galatians 1:10). Practical Responses When Insults Fly • Stay calm and speak truth plainly, as the healed man did (John 9:27, 30-33). • Refuse to trade insult for insult (Romans 12:17). • Keep the focus on Jesus’ work, not on winning an argument. • Remember your identity: you are Christ’s disciple; that honor eclipses any label others throw at you. • Lean on Scripture—have verses ready that explain the gospel and address common objections. • Pray for those opposing you, asking God to open their eyes as He opened yours (Matthew 5:44). • Accept that some may still reject the message; faithfulness is measured by obedience, not outcomes (1 Corinthians 4:2). Encouragement from Other Scriptures • Matthew 5:11-12 – “Blessed are you when people insult you… Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven.” • 2 Timothy 3:12 – “Indeed, all who desire to live godly lives in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” • 1 Peter 3:15-16 – Answer with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience. • Acts 4:19-20 – Peter and John: “We cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard.” Final Thoughts: Staying Faithful Under Fire Opposition, even mockery, is no surprise when we testify about Jesus. Like the formerly blind man, we cling to firsthand experience, speak boldly yet graciously, and trust God with the results. Remaining steady in truth not only honors Christ but also leaves an undeniable witness that God still opens eyes today. |
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