Read: John 9:1-41
. . . and he worshiped . . . (v. 38)
This is the sixth “sign” of seven in John’s gospel and contains more details than any other. We know the man’s condition before Jesus met him. We learn how Jesus opened his eyes. We witness the response of other people. And we see the ultimate reason for his healing. It was a miracle, a man born blind saw! But from the way John recalled the event, it points to so much more. Look closely and see the path that salvation took in a person’s life.
First, the man was born blind. He did nothing to cause his blindness (John 9:3). Likewise, we are all born in a sinful condition. “None is righteous, no, not one” (Rom. 3:10). Second, Jesus took the initiative to open his eyes (John 9:6). We can be saved only if God moves first. And he did! “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son” (3:16). Third, all the blind man did was trust Jesus to wash in the pool (9:7). Our part in salvation is to accept the gift. “But to all who did receive him . . . he gave the right to become children of God” (1:12).
In the end, the sign accomplished its ultimate goal: the man born blind received salvation and worshiped Jesus (9:38). Where do you see yourself in the man’s story? If you have not yet believed, ask God to open your eyes to see Jesus. If you have believed, rejoice in your salvation and worship. —Jon Opgenorth
As you pray, ask God to open blind eyes everywhere.
About the Author
Rev. Jon Opgenorth serves as president of Words of Hope. Previously, he served for 18 years as senior pastor at Trinity Reformed Church in Orange City, Iowa. In preparation for ministry, he received a BA in Religion from Northwestern College, and an MDiv from Fuller Theological Seminary.
