Matthew 9:28 – “When he had gone indoors, the blind men came to him, and he asked them, ‘Do you believe that I am able to do this?’ ‘Yes, Lord,’ they replied.”
Extended Explanation
This verse continues the story of two blind men seeking healing from Jesus. After following Him and calling out for mercy, they approach Him directly when He goes indoors. Jesus then asks them a simple but profound question: “Do you believe that I am able to do this?” Their response, “Yes, Lord,” demonstrates their faith in His power and authority.
By asking this question, Jesus is not just testing their faith but inviting them to verbalize their trust in Him. Their response shows they recognize Him as more than a teacher or healer—they acknowledge Him as their Lord.
Historical Context
In Jewish culture, blindness was often seen as a severe affliction, with few, if any, medical remedies available. Those who were blind were frequently marginalized, relying on charity or begging for survival. The blind men’s persistence in seeking Jesus reflects their desperation and their belief that He could do what no one else could.
The title “Lord” in their response indicates their recognition of Jesus’ authority, which aligns with their earlier use of “Son of David” in verse 27. This title reflects their belief that Jesus is the promised Messiah, fulfilling the prophecies of the Old Testament.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the importance of faith in receiving from Jesus. The blind men’s healing is closely tied to their belief in His ability to act. Their response, “Yes, Lord,” reflects the kind of trust and acknowledgment of His authority that Jesus often sought from those He healed.
It also shows that Jesus values personal faith. He could have healed them without asking any questions, but His inquiry invites them to participate in the miracle by affirming their belief in Him.
Literary Analysis
Matthew 9:28 shifts the scene indoors, creating a more private and personal interaction between Jesus and the blind men. The question, “Do you believe that I am able to do this?” adds a moment of suspense and reflection, drawing attention to the central role of faith in the story.
The men’s response, “Yes, Lord,” is brief yet powerful, emphasizing their trust in Jesus and their understanding of who He is. This exchange sets the stage for the miracle that follows in the next verse.
Biblical Cross-References
- Mark 9:23-24 – A father seeking healing for his son declares, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief,” highlighting the role of faith in receiving Jesus’ power.
- Hebrews 11:6 – Faith is essential to please God and to approach Him with confidence.
- Matthew 8:2-3 – A leper expresses faith by saying, “Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean.”
- John 11:25-26 – Jesus asks Martha if she believes He is the resurrection and the life, emphasizing the importance of personal belief.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse challenges us to examine our faith. Do we truly believe that Jesus has the power to meet our needs, no matter how impossible they seem? The blind men’s bold response encourages us to trust Jesus fully and approach Him with confidence in His ability to act.
It also reminds us that faith is personal. Jesus’ question invites us to reflect on our own belief and respond to Him directly. Our relationship with Him is not about mere rituals or knowledge but about trusting Him with our hearts and lives.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is evident in Jesus’ willingness to engage with the blind men personally. He doesn’t just heal them without interaction—He draws them into a conversation, inviting them to express their faith and recognize His role in their healing.
This verse shows that God cares about our hearts and wants us to trust Him, not just for what He can do but for who He is. His love meets us where we are and calls us into a deeper relationship with Him.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse highlights Jesus as both the source of healing and the object of faith. The blind men’s acknowledgment of Him as “Lord” reflects their understanding of His divine authority and their trust in His power to restore them.
It also points to Jesus’ mission to bring light to those in darkness, both physically and spiritually. Just as He opened the eyes of the blind, He opens the hearts of those who trust in Him, leading them into a relationship with God (John 9:39, Isaiah 42:7).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does Jesus’ question, “Do you believe that I am able to do this?” challenge your own faith?
- Are there areas in your life where you need to trust Jesus’ power and authority more fully?
- What does the blind men’s response, “Yes, Lord,” teach you about the attitude we should have when approaching Jesus?
- How does this verse encourage you to seek a personal and trusting relationship with God?
- In what ways can you share the importance of faith and trust in Jesus with others who are seeking Him?