John 9:31

"The man answered them, “How amazing! You don’t know where he comes from, yet he opened my eyes."

Key Reflection

In John 9:31, the blind man's declaration reflects both amazement and a subtle rebuke to the religious leaders. He acknowledges their ignorance by saying, "You do not know where he comes from," yet insists that this ignorance does not negate the miracle of his sight restoration. This statement highlights the irony that despite their self-proclaimed knowledge and authority, they fail to recognize divine truth or action. The cultural context underscores the significance of knowing one's origins—both physically (as a healed person) and spiritually (as a follower of Jesus)—which these religious leaders are clearly missing.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 31. Now we know. That is, it is an admitted or conceded point. No one calls it into question. God heareth not. When a miracle was performed it was customary to invoke the aid of God. Jesus often did this himself, and it was by his power only that prophets and apostles could perform miracles. The word "heareth" in this place is to be understood as referring to such cases. God will not "hear"--that is, answer. Sinners. Impostors. False prophets and pretenders to divine revelation. See Joh 9:24. The meaning of this verse is, therefore, "It is well understood that God will not give miraculous aid to impostors and false prophets," We may remark here, 1st.

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