John 9:24 – “A second time they summoned the man who had been blind. ‘Give glory to God by telling the truth,’ they said. ‘We know this man is a sinner.’”
Extended Explanation
This verse is part of the story of Jesus healing a man who was born blind. The religious leaders, unwilling to accept the miracle, call the man in for questioning again. They pressure him to denounce Jesus, telling him to “Give glory to God”—a phrase meant to push him into admitting that Jesus was a fraud.
Instead of celebrating the miracle, these leaders try to twist the truth. They claim to already “know” that Jesus is a sinner, not because of any real evidence, but because He healed on the Sabbath, breaking their religious traditions. This verse highlights their stubbornness and their unwillingness to acknowledge the power of God at work through Jesus.
Historical Context
During this time, the Pharisees held great authority in Jewish society. Their interpretation of the Law was strict, and they expected people to follow their rules without question. One of their key traditions was Sabbath observance, and they had added extra rules that went far beyond what God originally commanded.
By healing the blind man on the Sabbath, Jesus challenged their authority. Instead of considering that He might be the Messiah, they reacted with hostility. The phrase “Give glory to God” was often used in Jewish courts to demand a confession of wrongdoing (similar to taking an oath today). The religious leaders weren’t looking for the truth—they were pressuring the man to say what they wanted to hear.
Theological Implications
This verse exposes the danger of religious pride. The Pharisees were so convinced they were right that they rejected clear evidence of God’s work. Their hearts were hardened, and they refused to see the truth.
It also highlights the cost of following Jesus. The healed man was put in a difficult position—agree with the powerful religious leaders or stand by what he knew was true. His situation reflects what many believers face: choosing between pleasing people and staying faithful to Christ.
Literary Analysis
John 9 is full of dramatic irony. The religious leaders, who claim to “know” the truth, are actually blind to it. Meanwhile, the blind man, who once lived in darkness, is now both physically and spiritually seeing more clearly.
This verse also uses irony in the Pharisees’ demand. They tell the man to “Give glory to God” while rejecting the very One through whom God’s glory is revealed—Jesus. Their statement that Jesus is a sinner is another example of their spiritual blindness.
Biblical Cross-References
- Joshua 7:19 – Joshua tells Achan to “give glory to God” by confessing his sin, showing how the phrase was used in Jewish tradition.
- John 5:39-40 – Jesus rebukes the religious leaders for studying Scripture but refusing to come to Him for life.
- Matthew 23:24 – Jesus condemns the Pharisees for focusing on minor rules while ignoring justice, mercy, and faithfulness.
- 2 Corinthians 4:4 – The god of this world blinds unbelievers so they cannot see the light of Christ.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse reminds us that not everyone will accept the truth about Jesus, no matter how clear the evidence. Some people, like the Pharisees, reject Him because admitting He is Lord would mean surrendering their own control.
Christians today may also face pressure to deny or distort the truth to fit in with the world. The healed man in this story was asked to compromise, but he stood firm. His example encourages believers to stay faithful, even when it’s difficult.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is seen in how He reveals Himself to people, even when others reject the truth. The religious leaders refused to see, but the blind man was given both physical and spiritual sight. This shows that God’s love is not just about miracles—it’s about bringing people into the truth.
Even when people resist God, He continues to give opportunities to believe. The Pharisees were blinded by pride, but the blind man’s growing faith reminds us that God draws people to Himself in love.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the central figure in this story, and this verse highlights the growing opposition against Him. The Pharisees labeled Him a sinner because He didn’t fit their expectations, but the blind man experienced firsthand that Jesus was no ordinary man.
Jesus Himself said that those who follow Him will face opposition:
- John 15:18-19 – “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first.”
- Luke 6:22 – Jesus said His followers would be rejected for His name.
- John 14:6 – Jesus declared Himself as the only way to God, a statement that forces people to choose.
Ultimately, this verse shows the dividing line Jesus creates. Some, like the Pharisees, reject Him. Others, like the blind man, come to faith.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Have you ever faced pressure to deny or soften your faith? How did you respond?
- Why do you think the religious leaders refused to believe in Jesus, even with clear evidence?
- How does this story challenge you to stand for truth, even when it’s unpopular?
- What does this verse teach us about the difference between religious pride and true faith?
- How does this passage help you understand spiritual blindness and the need for God to open hearts?