John 9:35 – “Jesus heard that they had thrown him out, and when he found him, he said, ‘Do you believe in the Son of Man?’”
Extended Explanation
This verse takes place right after the healed man has been cast out of the synagogue by the Pharisees. He was expelled because he stood firm in his testimony about Jesus, refusing to deny the truth of what had happened to him. Now, after being rejected by the religious leaders, he is found by Jesus.
Jesus does not leave this man alone in his rejection. Instead, He actively seeks him out. This is a powerful moment, as it shows that even when people reject someone for following the truth, Jesus welcomes them.
Jesus’ question, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?” is significant. The title “Son of Man” is one Jesus often used for Himself, drawing from Daniel 7:13-14, where the Son of Man is described as one who has authority and an everlasting kingdom. Jesus is now giving the healed man an opportunity to move from recognizing Him as a prophet (John 9:17) to fully believing in Him as the Messiah.
This is a turning point in the man’s spiritual journey. He has gone from receiving physical sight to now being invited to receive spiritual sight—to believe in Jesus as Lord.
Historical Context
At this time, being cast out of the synagogue was a serious punishment. It meant being cut off from Jewish religious life, community, and social acceptance. The Pharisees used this as a way to control people, threatening excommunication for anyone who confessed Jesus as the Messiah (John 9:22).
Jesus’ approach in this situation is very personal. Unlike the Pharisees, who rejected the healed man, Jesus actively seeks him out. This reflects Jesus’ mission: He came to seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10).
The term “Son of Man” was well known in Jewish teaching, referring to a divine figure prophesied in Daniel 7:13-14 who would be given dominion and authority by God. By using this title, Jesus was not just calling Himself a man—He was identifying Himself as the one with divine authority.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights Jesus’ personal care for those who trust in Him. He does not abandon those who suffer for His name. When the world rejects, Jesus accepts. This is a powerful reminder that faith in Christ may cost us something, but He will never leave us alone.
It also emphasizes the importance of personal faith. Jesus does not assume the healed man automatically believes in Him just because of the miracle. Instead, He asks, “Do you believe?” Faith is always personal—it requires a decision.
Additionally, this verse points to Jesus’ divine identity. He is not just a prophet or a healer; He is the Son of Man, the one with authority from God. True faith is not just believing in miracles—it is believing in who Jesus really is.
Literary Analysis
John 9 is structured as a story of progression—from physical blindness to sight, and from spiritual blindness to faith. This verse represents the final stage in the healed man’s journey.
There is also a strong contrast in this passage. The Pharisees, who claimed to have spiritual sight, rejected Jesus, while the man who was once physically blind now sees the truth more clearly than they do. This theme of blindness versus sight is a major literary and theological element in the Gospel of John.
Additionally, the phrase “Jesus heard that they had thrown him out” serves as a transition. The healed man has lost his place in Jewish society, but Jesus offers him something far greater—eternal life. This is a moment of both loss and gain, rejection and redemption.
Biblical Cross-References
- Daniel 7:13-14 – The “Son of Man” is a divine figure with authority and an everlasting kingdom.
- Luke 19:10 – “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”
- John 6:40 – Jesus says that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in Him will have eternal life.
- Matthew 10:32-33 – Jesus teaches that those who acknowledge Him before others will be acknowledged before the Father.
- Isaiah 41:10 – A promise that God will not abandon those who trust in Him.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse is a reminder that faith in Jesus may lead to rejection from the world. The healed man was cast out for standing up for the truth, just as many Christians today face opposition for their faith. But just as Jesus sought him out, He promises to be with those who remain faithful to Him.
It also challenges believers to consider their own faith. Jesus asks, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?” That question is still relevant today. Faith is not just about believing in miracles or being part of a religious group—it is about personally trusting in Jesus as Lord.
Furthermore, this verse provides comfort. No matter what we lose because of our faith, Jesus is greater. If the world turns against us, He remains with us. Just as He found the healed man, He will find us in our moments of rejection and suffering.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is seen in how Jesus personally seeks out the man who was rejected. He does not wait for people to find Him—He goes after them. This reflects God’s character as a shepherd who searches for His lost sheep (Luke 15:4-6).
It also shows that God’s love is not based on social status or religious approval. The Pharisees rejected the healed man, but Jesus welcomed him. This reminds us that God’s love is for everyone, not just the religious elite.
Finally, this verse reveals that God’s love invites a personal response. Jesus doesn’t force the man to believe—He asks him. In the same way, God offers salvation, but each person must decide whether to accept it.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus’ question, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?” points directly to His divine role. Throughout His ministry, He used this title to describe Himself, connecting His mission to the prophecy in Daniel 7:13-14.
His act of seeking out the healed man also reflects His role as the Good Shepherd (John 10:11). Just as He went after this man, He seeks after all who are lost, offering them the chance to believe in Him.
This moment also foreshadows the greater rejection Jesus Himself would face. The healed man was cast out of the synagogue; Jesus would be rejected and crucified. But just as Jesus welcomed the man into a new relationship with Him, He welcomes all who put their trust in Him.
- John 10:14-15 – Jesus, the Good Shepherd, knows His sheep and lays down His life for them.
- Matthew 16:15-16 – Jesus asks Peter, “Who do you say I am?” showing that faith must be personal.
- Hebrews 13:5 – Jesus promises never to leave or forsake those who trust in Him.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse encourage you when facing rejection for your faith?
- Why do you think Jesus personally sought out the healed man instead of waiting for him to come?
- What does Jesus’ question, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?” mean for you personally?
- How does this passage challenge you to trust in Jesus, even when it comes at a cost?
- What does this verse reveal about God’s love for those who are cast out or rejected?