John 9

Summary

 

This chapter showcases a powerful miracle performed by Jesus, the healing of a man born blind. It also highlights the growing tension between Jesus and the religious authorities, emphasizing the theme of spiritual blindness and the consequences of rejecting the revelation of Jesus as the Messiah.

 

1. Healing of the Man Born Blind (John 9:1-12): Jesus encounters a man blind from birth. His disciples inquire about the cause of the man's condition, and Jesus explains that it is an opportunity for God's work to be displayed. Jesus then heals the blind man by applying mud made from his saliva to the man's eyes and instructing him to wash in the Pool of Siloam.

2. Interrogation by the Pharisees (John 9:13-34): The healing causes a stir, and the Pharisees question the man, as the miracle was performed on the Sabbath. The man describes Jesus as a prophet. The Pharisees doubt the legitimacy of the healing and summon the man's parents for confirmation.

3. Spiritual Blindness and Excommunication (John 9:35-41): Jesus learns that the healed man has been cast out of the synagogue. He finds the man and reveals his identity as the Son of Man. Jesus contrasts spiritual blindness with physical sight, stating that those who claim to see are guilty of sin. The chapter ends with Jesus condemning the spiritual blindness of the Pharisees.

 

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