What is the meaning of John 9:21? But how he can now see The parents admit an undeniable fact: their son, born blind, now sees. This is a straightforward acknowledgment of a literal miracle (John 9:6-7). Scripture often links opened eyes with God’s direct action (Psalm 146:8; Isaiah 42:7), and Jesus’ sign fulfills those prophecies (Matthew 11:4-5). The parents’ words confirm the reality of the work while distancing themselves from its explanation. or who opened his eyes They refuse to identify Jesus as the healer. Though the man had already testified (John 9:10-11), the parents are unwilling to reinforce that claim. Their avoidance parallels others who hesitated to confess Christ openly (John 7:13; 12:42-43) because open allegiance carried real consequences (John 9:22). The contrast between their silence and Jesus’ unmistakable power highlights the decision every witness must make when confronted with the Savior’s works. we do not know Whether or not the statement is literally true, it functions as a protective dodge. Fear of expulsion from the synagogue overrides gratitude (Proverbs 29:25). Their reluctance shows how social pressure can muzzle truth even when evidence is clear (Acts 5:29 contrasts this with apostolic boldness). The verse warns that neutrality is not possible when Christ acts; silence can itself be a denial. Ask him Jewish law allowed direct testimony from an adult beneficiary, so the parents shift responsibility to their son. Personal witness remains the most compelling answer to skepticism (John 9:24-25: “One thing I do know: I was blind, and now I see.”). Believers today likewise carry first-hand stories of grace, urged to speak plainly when asked (1 Peter 3:15). Delegating testimony reminds us that experience with Jesus is never secondhand. He is old enough to speak for himself. The man is accountable for his own confession—an echo of individual responsibility before God (Ezekiel 18:20; Romans 14:12). Faith cannot be inherited; each person must respond to Christ personally (John 1:12-13). By emphasizing his maturity, the parents unintentionally spotlight the authenticity of his witness: an adult, competent, and uncoached. summary John 9:21 shows parents caught between undeniable miracle and fear-based silence. They confirm the fact—“our son now sees”—but refuse to name Jesus, opting instead to defer to their son’s testimony. The verse exposes how social pressure can stifle truth, underscores the power of personal witness, and reminds every reader that, like the healed man, we are answerable for our own response to the light Christ gives. |
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