John 9:20 – “‘We know he is our son,’ the parents answered, ‘and we know he was born blind.’”

Extended Explanation

In this verse, the parents of the healed man confirm two essential facts to the Pharisees:

1. The man is their son. They validate his identity, confirming that he is not an imposter.
2. He was indeed born blind. This establishes that his healing was not a hoax—his blindness was not temporary or faked.

By stating these facts, they confirm that a genuine miracle has taken place. However, as we will see in the next few verses, they stop short of fully supporting their son’s testimony because they fear the consequences of acknowledging Jesus publicly.

The Pharisees had called them in as witnesses, hoping to find a way to discredit the miracle. However, the parents’ response only strengthens the reality of what Jesus had done. The fact that this man had been blind from birth makes the miracle even more incredible.

Yet, while the parents speak truthfully about their son, they hold back from saying anything about Jesus, showing that they were afraid of the religious leaders.

Historical Context

In first-century Jewish society, religious leaders, like the Pharisees, held great power over the community. They controlled access to the synagogue, which was not just a place of worship but also the center of social and religious life.

At this time, there was already growing hostility toward Jesus from the religious leaders. The next verse (John 9:22) tells us that the Jewish authorities had decided that anyone who confessed Jesus as the Messiah would be put out of the synagogue.

To be expelled from the synagogue was a serious consequence. It meant being cut off from the religious and social community, which could lead to being shunned by neighbors, losing business opportunities, and becoming an outcast. This is why the parents are fearful and careful about their words.

Theological Implications

This verse highlights several important spiritual truths:

1. Truth cannot be denied, but people may be afraid to stand for it. The parents do not lie—they confirm their son’s healing—but they are also hesitant to say more because of fear.
2. Fear can keep people from standing up for Jesus. Even though they had seen the power of God at work in their son, they were afraid of what it would cost them.
3. Jesus’ miracles force people to make a choice. The religious leaders, the healed man, and his parents all had to decide how they would respond. Some resisted, some feared, and some—like the healed man—embraced the truth.

This verse reminds us that faith often requires courage. Many people believe in Jesus but hesitate to publicly acknowledge Him out of fear of rejection or persecution.

Literary Analysis

John’s Gospel frequently uses dialogue and questioning to highlight themes of faith and unbelief. Here, the Pharisees’ interrogation creates a moment of tension. The parents confirm undeniable facts but stop short of taking a stand for Jesus.

There is a contrast between:

• The parents, who confirm the truth but remain cautious, and
• Their son, who boldly speaks the truth without fear (John 9:25, John 9:30-33).

John is showing how fear can keep people from fully accepting Jesus, but true faith leads to boldness.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• Matthew 10:32-33 – “Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven. But whoever disowns me before others, I will disown before my Father in heaven.” Jesus warns against fearing man more than God.
• John 12:42-43 – Some Jewish leaders believed in Jesus but kept silent because they were afraid of being put out of the synagogue.
• Acts 5:29 – Peter and the apostles say, “We must obey God rather than human beings,” choosing to stand for Christ despite persecution.
• Revelation 21:8 – The Bible warns against being cowardly in the face of truth. Faith requires boldness.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse reminds us that following Jesus requires boldness. The parents knew the truth but were afraid to say more because of fear. Many people today face similar pressures—whether at work, in school, or in social circles. The question is: Will we stand for the truth, or will we let fear keep us silent?

It also challenges us to examine whether we are letting fear of rejection, criticism, or persecution keep us from fully living out our faith. The healed man was willing to boldly speak the truth, but his parents hesitated.

As Christians, we must remember that truth is truth, regardless of the consequences. If Jesus has transformed our lives, we should not be ashamed to share it.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is seen in how He works in people’s lives, even when they struggle with fear. He did not reject the parents for being afraid, just as He does not reject people today who wrestle with doubts or fears.

At the same time, God calls people into deeper faith. The healed man will eventually come to recognize Jesus as Lord and worship Him (John 9:38), showing that God desires bold, unashamed faith.

This also reveals that God’s love is greater than the fear of man. While rejection by the world may feel painful, being accepted by Jesus is far more valuable.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

This verse highlights the growing opposition to Jesus. The religious leaders were so determined to reject Him that they were pressuring others into silence. This foreshadows the ultimate rejection of Jesus at His trial and crucifixion.

It also connects to Jesus’ teaching that following Him will come with a cost. Many people—even today—hesitate to speak openly about Jesus because of fear. However, Jesus calls His followers to be bold in their witness.

Ultimately, this passage challenges us to ask: Are we more like the healed man, who boldly proclaimed what Jesus did for him, or like the parents, who hesitated out of fear?

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Why do you think the parents were afraid to say more about Jesus?
2. Have you ever hesitated to share your faith because of fear of rejection or consequences? How did you handle it?
3. What does this passage teach about the cost of following Jesus?
4. How can we grow in boldness and confidence when speaking about our faith?
5. What are some ways you can encourage others to stand firm in their faith, even when facing opposition?