What does "if this man were not from God" reveal about Jesus' identity? Setting the Scene • John 9 records Jesus giving sight to a man born blind—an unheard-of miracle that stunned both the crowds and the religious leaders. • When interrogated by the Pharisees, the healed man concludes: “If this man were not from God, He could do nothing.” (John 9:33) • His statement becomes a watershed moment: a layman testifies to Jesus’ divine origin in the face of hostile opposition. The Man’s Logic: Simple, Sound, and Scriptural 1. God alone opens blind eyes (Psalm 146:8). 2. Jesus opened his eyes—instantly, fully, and publicly. 3. Therefore, Jesus must be “from God.” – The Greek phrase para tou Theou points to both source and commission; Jesus originates with God and is sent by God. What “From God” Says About Jesus • Divine Mission – Sent directly by the Father (John 6:38; 8:42). • Divine Authority – Able to do what only God can do—create sight (Genesis 2:7 echoed in the mud and saliva). • Divine Identity – More than a prophet (John 9:17); the healed man soon calls Him “Lord” and worships (John 9:38). – Scripture never rebukes worship of Jesus, underscoring His deity (Matthew 14:33; John 20:28). • Divine Approval – “We know that God does not listen to sinners” (John 9:31). The miracle proves unbroken fellowship between Father and Son (John 10:37–38). Confirmed by the Wider Biblical Witness • Nicodemus reaches the same conclusion: “No one could perform the signs You are doing if God were not with him.” (John 3:2) • Peter at Pentecost: “Jesus the Nazarene was a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders, and signs.” (Acts 2:22) • John’s Prologue already declared, “The Word was God … The Word became flesh.” (John 1:1, 14) • The epistles concur: “The Father has sent His Son to be the Savior of the world.” (1 John 4:14) Implications for Us Today • Jesus is no mere teacher; His works certify Him as the divine Son. • Worship is the only fitting response—just as the healed man demonstrates. • Rejecting Jesus’ divine origin requires dismissing clear Scriptural testimony and the historical miracle record. • Embracing Him “from God” brings sight to spiritual eyes, turning doubters into witnesses. |
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