In John 9:1–16, the story of Jesus healing a man born blind offers both a miraculous healing and an opportunity for Jesus to correct misunderstandings about suffering and sin.
The Disciples' Belief
When Jesus and His disciples encounter a man who was born blind, the disciples ask:
“Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” (John 9:2)
Their question reflects a common belief in that time: that physical ailments or suffering were direct punishments for specific sins. They assumed that the man's blindness was caused by either his own sin (even though he was born blind) or the sin of his parents.
Jesus' Response
Jesus rejects this notion. He responds:
“Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.” (John 9:3)
Jesus corrects their belief by explaining that the man's blindness is not a result of sin but rather an opportunity for God’s glory to be revealed. He shifts the focus from blame and punishment to the idea that even suffering can serve a greater purpose in God’s plan.
The Miracle
Jesus then heals the man by spitting on the ground, making mud with His saliva, and applying it to the man’s eyes. He instructs the man to wash in the Pool of Siloam, and after doing so, the man regains his sight (John 9:67).
Significance
Jesus corrects the disciples' misunderstanding of suffering and sin, emphasizing that not all suffering is a direct result of individual sin.
He highlights that God's power and glory can be displayed through healing and restoration.
This act of healing also leads to a controversy with the Pharisees (John 9:13–16), who question whether the miracle was lawful because it was performed on the Sabbath.
Thus, Jesus teaches that suffering can sometimes be an occasion for God's work, rather than a punishment for sin.
More: Lessons from Themes in the Gospel of John Lesson 2
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