John 9:40 Meaning

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What is the meaning of John 9:40?

And some of the Pharisees which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also?

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John 9:40 Bible Verse Meaning

Understanding John 9:40

John 9:40 states, "Some of the Pharisees who were with Him heard these words, and said to Him, 'Are we blind also?'

Summary of Biblical Context

This verse is part of a dialogue where Jesus had just healed a man born blind. The Pharisees, a group often portrayed as opposers to Jesus, are questioning Him. Their inquiry reflects both their incredulity to Jesus’ teachings and their self-perception.

This moment sets a stark contrast between physical blindness and spiritual blindness.

Insight from Commentaries

  • Matthew Henry's Commentary:

    Henry notes that the Pharisees, despite their physical sight, were spiritually blind. He emphasizes the irony in their question, highlighting how they were eager to discredit Jesus while failing to recognize His authority and the work He performed.

  • Albert Barnes' Notes:

    Barnes explains that the Pharisees, entrenched in their religious traditions, are often blind to the truth because of their prejudice. Their question, "Are we blind also?", captures the defensiveness of those who are unwilling to accept their own failures to see the truth presented by Christ.

  • Adam Clarke's Commentary:

    Clarke suggests that the question demonstrates the pride and arrogance of the Pharisees; they thought themselves to be the enlightened ones of the law. Their denial of spiritual blindness represents a broader theme in the Gospels—the refusal by some to accept the revolutionary teachings of Jesus.

Thematic Elements

In John 9:40, themes of spiritual blindness, pride, and the resistance to truth are prevalent.

  • Spiritual Blindness: The Pharisees were incapable of seeing the truth of who Jesus was, despite their keen knowledge of the scriptures.
  • Pride and Arrogance: Their self-righteous question reflects a lack of humility needed to receive the transformative message of Jesus.
  • Invitation to Reflection: This interaction serves as an invitation for readers to introspect—are we, like the Pharisees, blind to truths in our lives?

Application to Daily Life

The teachings within John 9:40 can be applied to encourage self-examination.

  • Humility:

    Understanding one's limitations and being open to new truths is vital. The Pharisees' arrogance serves as a warning against becoming too entrenched in one's beliefs.

  • Seeking Truth:

    Christ invites believers not only to seek truth through study and prayer but also to remain vigilant against becoming spiritually complacent.

  • Awareness of Spiritual Blindness:

    Like the Pharisees, we may have misconceptions about ourselves and our faith. Recognizing this can lead to deeper spiritual growth.

Related Bible Cross References

  • Matthew 23:16-26: Jesus condemns blind guides, highlighting the danger of spiritual blindness.
  • 1 Corinthians 2:14: Paul explains how the natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, capturing the essence of spiritual blindness.
  • Revelation 3:17-18: The church of Laodicea is warned against their self-assured blindness, echoing the themes in John 9:40.

Conclusion

In examining John 9:40, we are reminded of the dangers of spiritual blindness and the importance of humility in understanding Scripture. Through the commentaries of Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, a deeper insight into this verse enriches our spiritual journey.

As we engage with this scripture, consider its implications in our daily lives and strive to embrace the light that Christ offers.

John 9 (KJV) Verse Selection

John 9:1 John 9:2 John 9:3 John 9:4 John 9:5 John 9:6 John 9:7 John 9:8 John 9:9 John 9:10 John 9:11 John 9:12 John 9:13 John 9:14 John 9:15 John 9:16 John 9:17 John 9:18 John 9:19 John 9:20 John 9:21 John 9:22 John 9:23 John 9:24 John 9:25 John 9:26 John 9:27 John 9:28 John 9:29 John 9:30 John 9:31 John 9:32 John 9:33 John 9:34 John 9:35 John 9:36 John 9:37 John 9:38 John 9:39 John 9:40 John 9:41

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