Why Were You Born (John 9 1-41)

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Study Notes: "Why Were You Born?" (John 9:1-41)

Introduction

Key Scripture: John 9:1-41

• Story Overview:
  • Jesus heals a man born blind.
  • Disciples question if sin caused the man's blindness.
  • Jesus explains that the blindness was so that God's works might be displayed.

Part 1: The Incident (John 9:1-12)

Jesus encounters a man blind from birth.  Jesus clarifies that the blindness was not due to sin but for God's works to be displayed. Jesus emphasizes His mission as the light of the world.  Jesus heals the man using mud made from saliva and the man washes in the Pool of Siloam and gains sight.

Insights

• Jesus' actions highlight that not all suffering is a result of sin.
• The purpose of life, according to Jesus, includes manifesting God's works.
• The physical healing symbolizes spiritual insight and understanding.

Part 2: The Investigation (John 9:13-34)

The healed man is brought to the Pharisees. They are are divided: some see Jesus as a sinner for breaking the Sabbath, others recognize the miracle. The  man asserts that Jesus is a prophet.  The Pharisees question the man's parents who  confirm their son was born blind but defer to him for details on his healing. The man stands by his testimony, stating he was blind but now sees. He logically argues that Jesus must be from God to perform such a miracle. Pharisees react angrily and expel the man.

Insights

• The Pharisees' reaction shows spiritual blindness and prejudice.
• The healed man's growing understanding of Jesus: from a man, to a prophet, to the Son of God.
• The narrative contrasts physical blindness with spiritual blindness.

Part 3: Spiritual Blindness (John 9:35-41)

Jesus finds the expelled man and reveals His identity as the Son of Man. The man believes and worships Jesus.  Jesus' mission includes bringing judgment, revealing spiritual blindness in those who claim to see.  Pharisees' guilt is highlighted by their refusal to acknowledge their blindness.

Conclusion

• Purpose of Life:
  • Manifesting the works of God.
  • Understanding and fulfilling one's purpose through a relationship with Jesus.
  • Do others see the attributes of the Holy Spirit in your life?

Discussion Questions

• How does the healing of the blind man illustrate the purpose of life according to Jesus?
• How can we overcome spiritual blindness and grow in our understanding of Jesus?
• In what areas of your life do you need to reflect the fruit of the Holy Spirit more clearly?