John 9:11 – “He replied, ‘The man they call Jesus made some mud and put it on my eyes. He told me to go to Siloam and wash. So I went and washed, and then I could see.’”
Extended Explanation
This verse is the healed man’s response to those asking how he regained his sight. His answer is simple and straightforward—he describes what Jesus did and how he obeyed. He does not try to explain the miracle or debate the religious significance; he simply shares his personal experience.
This is a powerful example of testimony. The man does not have deep theological understanding, but he knows one thing: he was blind, Jesus told him what to do, he obeyed, and now he can see. Sometimes, sharing our faith is as simple as that—telling others what Jesus has done for us.
His reference to “the man they call Jesus” shows that at this point, he does not yet fully understand who Jesus is. He recognizes Jesus as someone with great power, but his spiritual understanding will grow as the story continues. This reminds us that faith is often a journey—we don’t always have all the answers at first, but we can still testify to what we do know.
Historical Context
In the first-century Jewish world, blindness often led to poverty and begging. This man had been in a hopeless situation for his entire life. Suddenly, his life was transformed in a way no one had ever seen before.
The Pool of Siloam was a well-known reservoir in Jerusalem, used for both everyday needs and religious ceremonies. The fact that Jesus sent the man there adds another layer of meaning. It was a public place, meaning others would have witnessed his washing and his miraculous healing.
This also took place on the Sabbath, which would soon become a major issue. The religious leaders were more concerned about whether Jesus had broken their rules than about the miracle itself. But for the man who was healed, all that mattered was that Jesus had changed his life.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches several key truths about faith and obedience:
- Jesus initiates transformation. The blind man did not seek Jesus out—Jesus came to him and healed him. This mirrors how salvation works. Jesus makes the first move, calling people to faith.
- Obedience is part of faith. The man was healed only after he obeyed Jesus’ command to go and wash. Faith is not just about belief—it also involves action.
- A personal testimony is powerful. The man did not yet fully understand who Jesus was, but he could not deny what had happened to him. In the same way, people may not have all the answers, but they can still share what God has done in their lives.
Literary Analysis
John’s Gospel often emphasizes personal testimonies as a way of revealing Jesus’ identity. Here, the healed man gives a simple, factual account of what happened to him. His story stands in contrast to the skepticism of the crowd and the hostility of the religious leaders.
John also uses progressive revelation in this chapter. The man’s understanding of Jesus grows as the story unfolds. In this verse, he calls Him “the man they call Jesus.” Later, he will recognize Him as a prophet (John 9:17), and finally, as the Son of Man (John 9:35-38). This mirrors how people often grow in faith—they may start with limited understanding, but as they experience Jesus more, their belief deepens.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- 2 Kings 5:10-14 – Naaman was told to wash in the Jordan River to be healed of leprosy. Like the blind man, he had to obey before receiving his miracle.
- Isaiah 42:7 – A prophecy about the Messiah: “to open eyes that are blind.” Jesus is fulfilling this prophecy.
- John 3:11 – Jesus tells Nicodemus, “We speak of what we know, and we testify to what we have seen.” The healed man is doing exactly that—testifying to what he has experienced.
- Acts 4:20 – The apostles say, “As for us, we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.” Like the healed man, they share their personal testimony.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse reminds believers that sharing our faith does not require deep theological knowledge. The blind man simply told what happened to him. Likewise, Christians today don’t need to have all the answers—what matters is that they can testify to how Jesus has changed their lives.
It also teaches the importance of obedience. Many people want God to work in their lives but are not willing to follow His instructions. This man received his healing because he did what Jesus told him to do. In the same way, spiritual growth comes when believers obey God’s Word.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is seen in the way Jesus meets people where they are. This man was not a religious scholar—he was a blind beggar. But Jesus took the time to heal him, showing that God’s love reaches to everyone, no matter their status.
It also shows that God’s love is personal. Jesus did not just heal a crowd of people all at once. He saw this one man, cared for him, and restored his sight. God is not distant—He works in individual lives and meets people in their personal needs.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse points to Jesus as the source of transformation. The blind man could do nothing to heal himself—his sight came only because of Jesus’ power. In the same way, people cannot save themselves—salvation comes only through Jesus.
It also shows that faith is a process. The man did not fully understand Jesus at first, but he responded in obedience. Later, his faith would deepen. This is true for many people today—they may start with small steps of faith, but as they walk with Jesus, their understanding grows.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What stands out to you about the healed man’s response?
- How does this story encourage you to share your own testimony, even if you don’t have all the answers?
- Why do you think Jesus required the man to go and wash instead of healing him instantly?
- Have you ever had a time when you obeyed God’s leading before fully understanding what He was doing? What happened?
- What does this passage teach about the role of faith and obedience in experiencing God’s power?