Day 17

Jesus Healed a Man Born Blind

Read John 9:1-23

Summary

• Jesus and His disciples encountered a man born blind. The disciples asked if the blindness was due to the man’s sin or his parents’ sin.

• Jesus clarified that neither had sinned to cause this blindness, but this happened so that God's works might be displayed.

• Instead of having a theological discourse about sickness and sin, Jesus set out to heal the blind man, showing His compassion for the sick and His commitment to God’s assignment (vv. 4-5).

• Jesus did not heal the blind man instantly. Instead, Jesus instructed the blind man to walk more than 100m down a steep narrow path to the Pool of Siloam to wash his eyes. Hence, he would need some friends to help him down to the pool. It took faith, obedience and friendly help for the blind man to receive his sight.

• The Pharisees could not believe the account of the man’s healing and they kept pressing him for more details. They even questioned his parents about the man’s identity and healing. Being afraid of the religious leaders, the parents diverted their questions back to the man.

Reflect

Let’s focus on 9:1-7

1. Why do you think Jesus emphasised that the man’s blindness was not caused by sin, but it was an opportunity for God’s work to be displayed? What wrong theology was Jesus trying to correct?

2. Jesus did not waste time getting into a long theological discussion about sickness and sin. Instead, He simply healed the blind man. What can we learn from this example of Jesus concerning our ministry to the sick and needy?

3. Why did Jesus not heal the blind man instantly? What did the blind man need to do to receive his sight? What lesson can you learn concerning faith and obedience in receiving answers from God to prayer?

Watch

Videos used with permission by Michael Hoff
YouTube.com/@digitaltheologian
www.digitaltheologian.com 

Some alternative Greek translations suggest that God did not cause the man's blindness, but instead used the situation to reveal His glory through healing. The Pharisees aggressively interrogated the man, even going so far as to ask the once-blind man where Jesus went. Some scholars connect this trial scene to the historical tensions between early Christians and Jewish synagogues.

Reflect

How does this account inspire you to see that your present challenges or suffering can be opportunities to display God’s glory?

Closing Prayer

Pray for faith to see God's purposes in your struggles and for boldness to minister to those in need.