What does John 9:35 mean?

Explanation

John 9:35 highlights a profound moment within the Gospel of John where Jesus addresses a man who had been blind from birth but whom Jesus had healed.

This man had been interrogated by the Pharisees and ultimately cast out from the synagogue because he defended Jesus as a prophet and implicitly challenged the religious authorities.

When Jesus hears of the man’s expulsion, He seeks him out, demonstrating His care and concern for individuals, especially those marginalized or excluded from religious and social community.

The question Jesus poses, "Dost thou believe on the Son of God?", is central to the theme of belief in the Gospel of John. Jesus is not simply asking for intellectual assent but is inviting the man into a relationship of trust and commitment to Himself as the Son of God.

This verse showcases an invitation to personal faith and acknowledgment of Jesus' divine identity.

Historical Context

The event takes place in a first-century Jewish context, dominated by the Pharisaic interpretation of the Mosaic Law.

The Pharisees maintained a strict adherence to their traditions and were often at odds with Jesus, whom they saw as a threat to their authority and interpretation of the law.

The healing of the blind man on the Sabbath was one such instance that provoked the Pharisees because Jesus performed a miracle on a day when work was prohibited.

During this period, being cast out from the synagogue was a severe punishment, resulting in social ostracism and religious exclusion. The community and religious lives of Jewish people were closely intertwined; expulsion would have serious social repercussions for the individual.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse can be approached from several perspectives.

The traditional Christian view sees Jesus as fulfilling the messianic expectations as the Son of God , a title affirming His divinity.

In questioning the man's belief, Jesus is asking for recognition of His divine nature and role in God’s redemptive plan.

Some scholars argue that this passage reflects the Johannine community's situation facing expulsion from synagogues due to their belief in Jesus. This tension underscores a significant theological point: true fellowship is found in communion with Christ rather than merely in religious institutions.

Practical Applications

The verse emphasizes the personal nature of faith and Jesus’ invitation to believe in Him.

For modern readers, it suggests that one's faith should not be predicated solely on religious systems but should be rooted in a personal encounter and relationship with Jesus Christ.

It also offers encouragement to those who have been rejected or marginalized, emphasizing that Christ's welcome extends beyond societal and religious barriers.

Cross-References

• John 9:22 - Explaining the blind man’s parents’ fear of the Jewish leaders which could result in being cast out of the synagogue.
• John 1:12 - Highlighting the importance of believing in Jesus' name and receiving authority to become children of God.
• John 3:18 - Discussing the centrality of belief in Jesus to avoid condemnation.
• John 10:36 - Jesus referring to Himself as the Son of God.
• John 20:31 - Stating the purpose of John’s Gospel, that readers might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God.

Language Study

The term "son" (Greek: υἱὸς, huios) can refer to a biological son or a person having the nature or character of something. When paired with "God" (Greek: Θεός, Theos), "Son of God" attains a special significance that conveys a unique relationship and a shared divine nature with God Himself.

"Beliue" (Believe) translating from the Greek verb "πιστεύω" (pisteuō), means to trust in, rely on, or have faith in. It conveys not only an intellectual assent but also implies trust and relational dependence.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In other ancient mythologies, the term 'son of god' is also used, but often with different connotations. In Greco-Roman myth, for example, it could describe heroes or demigods who had one divine parent and one human parent, gaining them a special status.

In the religious context of Judaism, "Son of God" could be interpreted as a messianic title.

It is less about divine nature and more about an anointed person specially chosen by God, a King or high priest as seen in the Old Testament.

Scientific Perspectives

The intersection between this verse and science primarily deals with the miracle of healing the blind man, which precedes the verse in question.

While miracles, by definition, fall outside the realm of scientific explanation, what remains significant from a scientific perspective is the psychological and social effect of such an event on the individual and the surrounding community.

Modern psychology might consider the impact of social exclusion and the subsequent affirmation that Jesus provides to be vitally supportive for the man's wellbeing, promoting a sense of belonging and self-worth.

Commentaries

Commentators offer various insights into John 9:35.

Some, like Matthew Henry, focus on Jesus' compassion in seeking out the man who had been cast out and the way in which Jesus gently leads him to a fuller understanding and confession of faith.

Other scholars, such as D.A.

Carson, discuss the christological implications of the title "Son of God" and the nature of belief depicted in the Gospel of John.

The commentary in the New Bible Commentary discusses the idea that the man’s physical sight was restored, but now Jesus is also addressing his spiritual insight, calling for him to recognize and believe in the one who is both the Light of the world and the Son of God.

Additionally, many theologians use this passage to illustrate the theme of spiritual blindness versus physical blindness, wherein those who claim to see (the Pharisees) are blind to the truth of Jesus, while the one who was physically blind comes to a deep spiritual understanding and belief.