What is the meaning of John 9:23? That was why – The phrase reaches back to verse 22, where “his parents said these things because they feared the Jews, for the Jews had already determined that anyone who confessed Jesus as the Christ would be put out of the synagogue.” • Scripture presents clear cause-and-effect. Their fear produced their reply, just as Proverbs 29:25 warns, “The fear of man brings a snare.” • The account underscores the literal reality of religious pressure. Jesus had foretold such opposition (John 15:20). • God’s Word ties events together with purpose; here, the Spirit shows us that nothing occurs randomly (Romans 8:28). his parents said – Parents normally protect and teach (Proverbs 1:8); yet these parents speak defensively. • Their words expose divided loyalties: honoring their son’s miracle while shrinking back from open allegiance to Christ (Matthew 10:37). • Even godly roles can falter when fear intrudes (Genesis 3:12–13). • Still, Scripture records their speech verbatim, confirming its historical accuracy. He is old enough – They declare their son’s maturity: personal responsibility now rests on him. • The Bible affirms individual accountability: “The soul who sins shall die” (Ezekiel 18:20); “Fathers are not to be put to death for their children, nor children for their fathers” (Deuteronomy 24:16). • Their statement acknowledges that faith in Christ cannot be outsourced; each person must answer for himself (Romans 14:12). Ask him. – A direct invitation: investigate the one whose eyes were opened. • Personal testimony stands as powerful evidence. The healed man soon proclaims, “One thing I do know: I was blind, but now I see” (John 9:25). • Scripture consistently elevates firsthand witness (Acts 4:20; 1 Peter 3:15). • By insisting the leaders speak with their son, the parents unintentionally put the spotlight where God wants it—on the life-changing work of Jesus (John 5:36). summary The parents’ cautious words reveal fear of man, the reality of individual responsibility, and the power of personal testimony. God records this dialogue to show that every believer must stand for Christ, trusting that His truth remains unshakable despite opposition. |
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