John 9:1-23
…those who had seen him before as a beggar… (v.8b) Small point, maybe… This blind man was a beggar, not surprisingly in this 1st-century world. But it struck me that his parents were still alive (vv. 18, ff.) – why were they not responsible for his upkeep? Maybe it depends on the man’s age. If the blind man were older (40’ish), then his parents would have been old and dependent on others for their own upkeep. The question becomes more confusing if the blind man were younger. Why was he not supported by his parents? Had they thrown him out? Or was a blind man consigned to be a beggar all his adult life? No great insights here – just wondering…
But others said, “How can a man who is a sinner do such signs?” And there was a division among them. (v. 16b) I noted this division among the Pharisees two years ago (see the second link below) but did not comment on those who were cited as the “others”. Clearly Jesus was turning heads (and hearts?) as He worked these signs and wonders. We already know about Nicodemus’ courage in his (gentle) opposition to the Pharisaic leadership (John 7:50-51). Now presumably there are others who are more actively wondering about Jesus. It could be that Nicodemus’ own pondering about Jesus is having an impact on his Sanhedrin colleagues, especially to the extent that he is musing about Jesus’ activities in his conversations with his friends. Which brings me to our own Holy Week… Could we make it a point to insert into our conversations with our friends that we are going to church on Wednesday evening or Thursday evening or Friday evening? We need to be speaking out, folks! We never know when a small comment can have a large impact. And it will strengthen your own soul – speaking out will be easier the next time!
See also: June 27 / John 9:1-12; June 28 / John 9:13-23