Spiritual Blindness, Necessary for Spiritual Sight
Rev. Enoch Thompson | May 23, 2024 | John 9:39-41
KEY VERSE:
Jesus said, "If you were blind, you would not be guilty of sin; but now that you claim you can see, your guilt remains. John 9:41 (NIV)
MESSAGE:
Some self-awareness worldviews suggest that it is unhealthy to admit to flaws in one’s appearance, capabilities and conduct. One must put their best foot forward. This self-projection worldview denies even what is glaringly wrong, and in the name of self-assertion presents to oneself and to the gullible society an image that is never the true reflection of the person.
In concluding the narrative around the healing of the man born blind John presents one very basic principle of the Kingdom of God that every Gospel presentation must take into account, and that every Christian will have to uphold. The principle of admission of inadequacy and unworthiness is necessary to all who will benefit from the offer of life in the Kingdom of God. We must admit that we do not deserve to be loved by God in order to qualify to be loved by God, through His grace!
The admission of spiritual sight by the Pharisees confirmed and intensified their spiritual blindness. They had become so blind they did not see they were blind. When we claim to be alright without God our plight as fallen sinful beings intensifies. But when we admit our helplessness and call upon God, He brings us into a place of spiritual strength based on a new relationship with Him based solely on His grace towards us.
Can you truly sing “Amazing grace how sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me, I once was lost, but now I am found; was blind but now I see!
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Admit your spiritual blindness so you can see. Admit your human helplessness so you may receive divine power.
PRAYER:
Lord, I admit that I am blind, helpless and sinful. I cling onto you, and ask that you open my eyes, empower me and make me holy. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
DAILY word study: BLIND
The Greek word for "blind" in our Key verse is "τυφλός" (typhlos). It refers to physical blindness but often in the New Testament, it also denotes a lack of spiritual insight or understanding.
This passage underscores the contrast between physical and spiritual sight. Spiritual blindness prevents people from seeing the truth about Jesus and accepting the salvation He offers. It serves as a warning to believers to be aware of their spiritual state and to seek true understanding through faith and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Reflections:
Consider areas in your life where you might be spiritually blind. How can you seek clearer vision and deeper understanding through prayer, study of the Word, and openness to the Holy Spirit? What steps can you take to ensure that you are not like the Pharisees, confident in your own sight but missing the truth right in front of you?
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