John 9:31

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John 9:31 KJV

Now we know that God heareth not sinners: but if any man be a worshipper of God, and doeth his will, him he heareth.

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John 9:31 Bible Commentary

Commentary on John 9:31

John 9:31, which states, "We know that God does not listen to sinners. He listens to the godly person who does his will.", serves as a pivotal verse within the context of the broader narrative surrounding the healing of the man born blind. This commentary seeks to draw from the insights of esteemed public domain commentators such as Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke to provide a comprehensive understanding suitable for pastors, students, theologians, and scholars.

Contextual Significance

This verse is uttered by the formerly blind man during his discourse with the Pharisees. After experiencing a miraculous healing performed by Jesus, he boldly confronts the religious leaders about their attempts to discredit Jesus' authority and actions. This moment is not merely a defense of Jesus' character, but a profound declaration about the relationship between righteousness, prayer, and God's attentiveness.

Theological Implications

The assertion that God does not listen to sinners speaks to the theological understanding of sin and its consequences. According to Matthew Henry, this reflects the principle that a righteous relationship with God is essential for prayer and divine intervention:

  • God's Favor: Henry emphasizes that while God is merciful and may hear the cries of sinners in moments of penitence, He fundamentally favors those who live in accordance with His will. This aligns with the notion of God being just and, therefore, responding to those who seek Him earnestly and righteously.
  • Righteousness and Prayer: Albert Barnes expands on this by indicating that the sentiments here reflect a call for sincerity in prayer. God desires a heart aligned with His purposes—implying that the prayers of those who willfully engage in sinful behavior are unlikely to be heard.

Implications for Ministry

For pastors and ministry leaders, this verse serves as a reminder of the essential role that spiritual integrity plays in effective ministry. An understanding of God’s willingness to listen to the godly emphasizes the importance of living a life rooted in obedience and faithfulness. Adam Clarke provides valuable insights regarding the implications for the Christian community:

  • Encouragement for Holiness: Clarke suggests that this verse is an encouragement for believers to pursue holiness in their daily lives as it fosters a closer relationship with God, thus enhancing the efficacy of their prayers.
  • Instruction on Divine Communication: Clarke also posits that this provides instruction on how believers should approach God; sincerity and a life of obedience open the channels of communication with the Divine.

Exegetical Insights

Delving deeper into the exegesis of this verse, we find layers of meaning that contribute significantly to the understanding of God’s nature and human expectation.

  • Divine Sovereignty: Henry notes that God retains sovereignty over whom He chooses to hear. This is a sobering reminder of humanity's nature and God's omnipotence.
  • The Role of Faith: Barnes articulates that faith is not merely a belief in God’s existence but is manifested through obedience to His commands. This duality of belief and practice underscores the Christian faith.

Practical Applications

The teachings derived from John 9:31 lend themselves to practical applications in the life of the believer:

  • Self-examination: Believers should regularly engage in self-examination to discern their alignment with God's will, understanding that ongoing sin may hinder their prayer life.
  • Encouraging Repentance: Pastors should encourage congregants towards a lifestyle of repentance, understanding its necessity for restoring communication with God.

Conclusion

In conclusion, John 9:31 provides rich theological insight and practical direction for believers and leaders alike. The combination of the perspectives by well-regarded commentators highlights the essential nature of a godly life in experiencing God's attentive ear and the efficacy of prayer. It reminds us that the path of righteousness, aligned with God's will, is paramount for those who seek to cultivate a deep and thriving relationship with Him.

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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