Luke 18:35 – “As Jesus approached Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging.”
Extended Explanation
This verse sets the scene for a miraculous encounter between Jesus and a blind man who would soon receive his sight. As Jesus was traveling to Jerusalem, He passed through the city of Jericho, where He met this man sitting by the roadside. The man was blind and forced to beg, which shows his helpless state. In the ancient world, being blind was not just a physical condition—it meant living in poverty and being marginalized by society. The blind man’s only hope for survival was the mercy of others.
What’s important about this verse is that it highlights a moment where human need intersects with divine power. The man’s blindness represents not only his physical condition but also the spiritual blindness that many people experience. But as we see in the following verses, the blind man’s faith will lead to his healing, both physically and spiritually.
Historical Context
In biblical times, blindness was common due to poor hygiene, disease, and lack of medical care. There were no social programs or safety nets for the disabled, so blind people often had no choice but to beg. Beggars typically sat by the roadside or near city gates, hoping that travelers or locals would show them compassion by giving them food or money.
Jericho, where this event takes place, was a major city and a popular stop for travelers heading to Jerusalem. It was a strategic location for beggars, as people passing through the city would often give alms as an act of charity, especially during religious pilgrimages. The blind man was likely hoping to receive small donations from passersby, but instead, he was about to encounter Jesus, who would change his life forever.
Theological Implications
This verse introduces a powerful theme: God’s concern for the outcast and marginalized. Throughout His ministry, Jesus consistently showed compassion to those whom society ignored or rejected, including the sick, the poor, and the disabled. The blind man represents the people whom others might overlook, but Jesus sees him and responds to his faith.
Spiritually, the blind man’s condition can also be seen as a metaphor for humanity’s need for salvation. Just as the man was physically blind and unable to help himself, all people are spiritually blind without Christ, unable to see the truth of God’s kingdom. Jesus’ healing of the blind man is a picture of how He opens the eyes of those who are spiritually blind, allowing them to see the truth and receive salvation.
This encounter also illustrates the power of faith. In the following verses, the blind man cries out to Jesus, calling Him the “Son of David,” a title that acknowledges Jesus as the Messiah. His faith leads to his healing, showing that God responds to those who recognize their need and call out to Him.
Literary Analysis
The verse is simple but rich with meaning. It describes the setting in a straightforward way, but every detail serves a purpose. The location—Jericho—is significant because it was a city of wealth and importance, yet here we see a man in extreme poverty. The contrast between the bustling activity of travelers and the lonely figure of the blind man highlights his desperate condition.
The phrase “sitting by the roadside begging” emphasizes his helplessness and dependence on others. He is not moving or active; he is waiting, hoping that someone will help him. This sets the stage for Jesus to enter the scene and provide not just physical healing but also spiritual restoration.
Biblical Cross-References
- Isaiah 42:6-7 – “I will keep you and will make you to be a covenant for the people and a light for the Gentiles, to open eyes that are blind.”
- Psalm 146:8 – “The Lord gives sight to the blind, the Lord lifts up those who are bowed down, the Lord loves the righteous.”
- Matthew 20:30-34 – A parallel account of the healing of the blind man, where two blind men call out to Jesus for mercy.
- John 9:1-7 – The healing of another blind man, where Jesus explains that the man’s blindness is an opportunity for God’s works to be displayed.
- 2 Corinthians 4:4 – “The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.”
These passages highlight both the physical and spiritual aspects of blindness and how Jesus brings healing and restoration.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a reminder that Jesus sees those who are overlooked by society. Just as He noticed the blind man sitting by the roadside, He notices people today who are struggling, hurting, or feeling abandoned. No one is invisible to God, and no situation is too desperate for His intervention.
This verse also challenges believers to examine their own spiritual condition. Are they like the blind man, aware of their need for Jesus and ready to cry out to Him? Or are they blind to their spiritual need, thinking they can handle life on their own? The blind man’s story encourages Christians to humbly recognize their dependence on God and to seek Him with faith.
Additionally, this verse serves as a call to action. Just as Jesus showed compassion to the blind man, Christians are called to show compassion to those in need. This could mean helping the poor, advocating for the marginalized, or simply being present for someone who feels forgotten.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is shown in the way Jesus stops for the blind man. Despite the fact that He was on His way to Jerusalem, where He would face suffering and death, Jesus took time to care for someone in need. This reflects God’s heart of compassion and His willingness to meet people where they are, no matter how desperate their situation may be.
God’s love is also demonstrated in the fact that He doesn’t just meet physical needs—He addresses spiritual needs as well. The blind man received more than his sight; he experienced the power of God’s mercy and grace. This shows that God’s love is holistic, encompassing both the physical and spiritual well-being of His people.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is central to this verse because He is the one who brings hope to the hopeless. The blind man’s situation seemed impossible, but Jesus had the power to change it. This points to Jesus’ role as the Savior who brings light to those in darkness. Just as He opened the eyes of the blind man, He opens the eyes of those who are spiritually blind, allowing them to see the truth of who He is.
Jesus’ compassion also reflects His mission to seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10). He didn’t come to serve the rich and powerful—He came for those who recognized their need for a Savior. His encounter with the blind man is a picture of His greater mission to bring salvation to all who call on Him.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse challenge you to be more aware of people in need around you?
- In what ways do you relate to the blind man’s condition, either physically, spiritually, or emotionally?
- How can you follow Jesus’ example of showing compassion to those who are marginalized or overlooked?
- Are there areas in your life where you feel “blind” and in need of Jesus’ healing and guidance?
- How does this story encourage you to cry out to Jesus in faith, even when your situation feels hopeless?