John 9:23

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John 9:23 KJV

Therefore said his parents, He is of age; ask him.

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John 9:23 Bible Commentary

Commentary on John 9:23

Verse Context: John 9:23 states, “Therefore said his parents, He is of age; ask him.” This verse falls within the larger narrative of Jesus healing a man born blind, which serves as a profound illustration of spiritual blindness versus sight, both physical and metaphorical.

Summary of Insights

1. The Reaction of the Parents

Matthew Henry notes the caution exhibited by the parents in this passage. He emphasizes their fear of the Jewish authorities, which reveals a significant aspect of human nature: the desire to preserve one's own safety and social standing.

Henry elaborates that the parents, rather than being zealous advocates for Jesus's work, choose to redirect inquiries to their son. Their acknowledgment of their son's maturity, “He is of age,” marks a pivotal point where the responsibility of testimony is placed upon the son rather than the fearful parents.

2. Fear of Persecution

Albert Barnes highlights the political and religious climate of the time in which the healing occurred. He elaborates on the intense scrutiny the Jewish leaders were applying to any associate of Jesus, particularly after the healing of the blind man. Barnes points out that fear of being ‘put out of the synagogue’ drove the parents to avoid openly declaring their beliefs about Jesus, showcasing a real struggle between public faith and personal conviction.

3. The Implication of Age

Adam Clarke adds another layer to this discussion by marking the significance of declaring the son to be “of age.” This phrase is not only a statement regarding his physical maturity but also an indication of his moral and spiritual agency. It implies a transition, where he is now responsible for his own beliefs and testimony before the religious leaders.

Clarke suggests that this reflects a broader theological motif of the Gospel: the move from the old covenant to a new understanding of spiritual authority. The parents, still in the shadows of faith, contrast sharply with the son's journey into a personal relationship with Christ.

Theological Implications

1. Spiritual Blindness vs. Sight

Throughout John 9, the themes of blindness and sight extend beyond the physical ailment of the man healed by Jesus. This passage embodies a complex interaction of faith, doubt, and recognition of Christ's authority. The parents' refusal to deny or affirm their belief answers the challenges they face and reflects a broader struggle within the Jewish community.

This moment encapsulates the tension between traditional religious structures and the new revelation brought by Jesus, as represented by the parents’ indecision and their son's emerging faith.

2. Responsibility for Personal Faith

The shift of responsibility from the parents to the son emphasizes individual accountability in matters of faith. The author of the Gospel of John portrays this progression—moving from traditional beliefs to personal encounters with Jesus—as essential for understanding the Kingdom of God.

This theme resonates deeply with modern believers and theologians alike, as it speaks to the necessity of personal faith in the face of societal pressures. The challenges faced by the parents remind us of the risks that often accompany discipleship.

Conclusion

In summary, John 9:23 encapsulates a moment ripe with theological significance. The actions of the parents and their response to the miraculous work of Jesus provide rich insights into the dynamics of faith, fear, and spiritual transformation. As we reflect on this passage, it becomes clear that the Gospel invites each person, regardless of background or previous convictions, to enter into a personal recognition of Christ—a journey that demands courage amidst pressure and ultimately leads to spiritual enlightenment.

John 9 (KJV) Verse Selection

John 9:1 John 9:2 John 9:3 John 9:4 John 9:5 John 9:6 John 9:7 John 9:8 John 9:9 John 9:10 John 9:11 John 9:12 John 9:13 John 9:14 John 9:15 John 9:16 John 9:17 John 9:18 John 9:19 John 9:20 John 9:21 John 9:22 John 9:23 John 9:24 John 9:25 John 9:26 John 9:27 John 9:28 John 9:29 John 9:30 John 9:31 John 9:32 John 9:33 John 9:34 John 9:35 John 9:36 John 9:37 John 9:38 John 9:39 John 9:40 John 9:41

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