Definition: And his disciples asked him, saying, Master, who did sin, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this important verse from John 9:2. It's a really thought-provoking question and it gets to the heart of how God sees things. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Core Idea: Jesus is asking a difficult question about responsibility and sin. He’s challenging us to think about whether someone can be held accountable for something they didn't do – specifically, if their parents are responsible for their blindness. Let’s unpack it bit by bit: “His disciples asked him…” : This tells us this is a conversation Jesus had with his followers, likely after he performed an amazing miracle (like healing someone). “…saying, Master, who did sin, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind?” This is the crux of the question. The disciples are asking why someone is born blind? They're trying to understand if it’s a mistake, a curse, or something else entirely. Now, here’s where it gets complex and symbolic: Jesus isn't really saying that the man actually did sin. Instead, he's using this question to illustrate a very important truth about God's perspective: God sees the whole picture. He looks beyond individual actions and focuses on the intent . Here’s what Jesus is saying: God Sees the Whole Story: Just like we don’t blame an apple for rotting – we understand it was a result of being left out in the rain – God sees everything. He understands that even when someone isn't responsible for their own fate, there can be influence and impact . The Parents Have a Responsibility: Jesus is saying that the parents did have a responsibility to care for their child, to nurture them, and to provide for them. Their actions – or lack thereof – led to this situation. Why is this important? It’s about God's love and grace. It means that God doesn’t just punish people for their mistakes; He loves them unconditionally. He wants to protect and care for those who are vulnerable, even when they haven't done anything wrong. In a nutshell: The question isn't about who is responsible. It’s about the influence of the parents’ actions on the child’s situation – highlighting God’s watchful care. It’s a powerful reminder that God doesn't always see things as they are, but He understands the context and looks for the best possible outcome. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these concepts in more detail? Connect this verse to other Bible stories or teachings? Answer a specific follow-up question you might have about it?

Definition: His parents answered them and said, We know that this is our son, and that he was born blind:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from John 9:20. It’s a really interesting and touching part of the story about Jesus. Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: Jesus is walking through a forest when he comes across a man who has been blind since birth. He asks the man why he’s blind, and he says he was born blind. What the Verse Says: “John 9:20 His parents answered them and said, We know that this is our son, and that he was born blind:” "His parents answered them..." – This means the man’s parents were telling him about his situation. "...and said, We know that this is our son..." - They recognized him as their child. "...and that he was born blind:" – This is the key part. They know he was born blind. What it Means (The Significance): This verse isn’t about a physical disability anymore. It's a powerful metaphor for something much bigger: God's Grace and Redemption: The man's blindness wasn’t a punishment or a problem. It was caused by sin, which is a separation between us and God. Jesus says, "We know that this is our son," meaning He knows we are all born in a state of imperfection due to our choices. Jesus’ Gift: The verse speaks about Jesus' incredible gift – the ability to see and heal! It’s like Jesus is saying, “Even though I was born in darkness, I can bring light into your lives.” He’s offering a way to overcome what we’ve done wrong. In short, it’s a story about God's love and forgiveness. It highlights that even when we make mistakes, Jesus offers a chance for us to be healed and restored. Think of it like this: Imagine someone who has been hurt – they might feel sad, ashamed, or lost. Jesus is saying, “Even though you’ve made a mistake, you are still loved and worthy of a second chance.” --- Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail? For example, would you like to know: What the context of this story is? How this verse relates to other parts of the Bible?

Definition: But by what means he now seeth, we know not; or who hath opened his eyes, we know not: he is of age; ask him: he shall speak for himself.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly rich and somewhat mysterious verse from John 9:21. It’s a really fascinating passage about Jesus’ understanding and the nature of faith. Here's a simplified explanation: The Core Idea: Jesus is saying that we don’t fully understand how he sees – or understands things – and we don’t know how he’s able to see. It implies that his vision isn’t simply about seeing with our eyes, but something deeper and more spiritual. Let's unpack it bit by bit: "But by what means he now seeth..." : This is a little tricky. It's not about how he sees physically. It suggests that his understanding of things – like God’s will, the truth of the Bible, or even the future – isn’t directly accessible to us in our limited human minds. "...we know not" : This is key. We don't have a complete grasp on this divine insight. It's like looking at the stars – you can see them, but you don’t fully understand their patterns or meaning. “Or who hath opened his eyes, we know not” : This is a more evocative phrase. It suggests that God has revealed something to Jesus through his divine power and wisdom. It's like God is giving him a glimpse of the truth, but we don’t fully grasp it ourselves. “he is of age” : This is the most significant part. The verse implies that Jesus is not just thinking about these things; he’s experiencing them in a way that transcends our limited human comprehension. He's like a wise and ancient being, capable of seeing beyond what we can perceive with our senses. “ask him: he shall speak for himself.” : This is the final part – Jesus gives us a challenge. He says, “Ask him” – meaning, "Ask someone who understands God’s will perfectly." The verse implies that God will reveal his truth and perspective through this person. What it means on a deeper level: This verse speaks to the idea of divine revelation and the limitations of human understanding. It suggests: God's Superiority: Jesus is showing us that God’s ways are far greater than our own, and we can't fully grasp them through our own limited intellect. The Importance of Faith & Trust: Asking someone who understands God’s truth (like a prophet or someone deeply connected to the divine) is crucial. It highlights the importance of trusting in God’s guidance and revelation. In essence, this verse is about the power of faith – that we don't fully understand everything, but that God can reveal his truth through those who are open to it. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with a specific example? Discuss its connection to other biblical passages? Give you a short summary of the verse’s overall message?

Definition: These [words] spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from John 9:22. It's a really interesting and somewhat surprising passage about Jesus and his relationship with his family. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: Jesus was telling his parents that he didn’t believe he was the Messiah – the person prophesied to come and save humanity. They were worried because Jewish people, who held a very specific belief about Jesus' identity, had already agreed that if someone confessed that he was Christ, they would be kicked out of the synagogue (a religious gathering). Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “These [words] spake his parents…” : This means Jesus was speaking to his parents. “…because they feared the Jews…” : This is key. The parents were worried because they understood that Jewish people believed a very specific thing about Jesus – that he was the Messiah, the one prophesied in the Old Testament. They feared this belief would cause problems for them and their community. “…for the Jews had agreed already…” : This shows how deeply ingrained this belief was within Jewish society. They were practically certain Jesus was who they believed him to be. “…that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue.” : This is the shocking part! They believed that if someone confessed that Jesus was Christ, they would be banished from the synagogue – meaning they wouldn’t be allowed to participate in religious services. So, what does this mean? Jesus was essentially saying: "I don't believe I am the Messiah. I'm not the one prophesied to come and save people." He was trying to avoid being part of a group that held a very specific and potentially disruptive belief about his identity. Why is this important? This verse is often interpreted as a moment where Jesus showed his power and independence. It’s like he was saying, "I'm not bound by tradition or expectations. I have my own understanding of who I am." It also highlights the tension between faith and expectation – how people interpret religious beliefs and how those beliefs can impact community life. In short, it's a story about Jesus being aware of his place in the Jewish world and choosing to express his independent belief. --- Would you like me to: Explain another part of this verse? Discuss its symbolism? Compare it to other stories or teachings from the Bible?

Definition: Therefore said his parents, He is of age; ask him.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from John 9:23. It's a really beautiful and profound message about God’s love and the possibility of redemption. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says: "God wants to help people who are struggling, even when they don’t seem to be able to help themselves." Let’s unpack that a little further: “Therefore said his parents…” This tells us the parents are thinking about their son and recognizing he’s reached a certain age. They're acknowledging that he’s capable of understanding something important. “…He is of age; ask him.” This isn’t just about his physical maturity. It means he’s mature enough to understand what’s happening – that he needs help. What does this really mean? The key part is the idea of “asking” or seeking help. Jesus is saying that God wants to offer a chance for someone who is struggling, even if they don't realize it themselves, to get better. It’s about offering a path towards healing and finding their way back to a good life. The Significance: This verse is often interpreted as: God’s unconditional love: It shows that God loves everyone, no matter how difficult their situation might seem. Redemption through faith: It suggests that even when we make mistakes or are struggling, God can offer forgiveness and a new beginning. It's important to note: The verse doesn't say how this happens. It simply acknowledges the possibility of help. --- Do you want me to explain any of these aspects in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Talk about the symbolism of the tree? Explain what “asked” means in a more concrete way?

Definition: Then again called they the man that was blind, and said unto him, Give God the praise: we know that this man is a sinner.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from John 9:24. It's a really interesting and somewhat surprising one! Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: The people were trying to blame the blind man for his blindness – that he wasn’t being honest about being a sinner. They thought he was somehow responsible for not seeing clearly enough. Let's unpack it layer by layer: “Then again called they the man that was blind…” - This refers to Jesus, who is demonstrating his power and teaching. “…and said unto him, Give God the praise: we know that this man is a sinner.” – Jesus is telling the blind man to give credit to God for what happened. He’s saying that God is responsible for the blindness, not the man himself. What's the big takeaway? This verse highlights a crucial point about God's role in our lives: God always has the final say. It shows that God isn’t just passively allowing things to happen; He actively intervenes and is responsible for the consequences, even when it seems like someone else is at fault. Why is this important? This verse helps us understand a few key ideas: God's Sovereignty: It emphasizes that God is in control of everything, and we are all accountable to Him. Responsibility: It suggests that we too have responsibility for our actions – whether we’re being honest or not. Forgiveness & Redemption: Jesus is offering forgiveness to the blind man, even though he's a sinner. It shows that God can restore something broken and redeem someone from their mistakes. In short, this verse is a powerful reminder that God is always in charge and that we are all responsible for our choices. --- Would you like me to: Explain another Bible verse? Give you more context about John 9?

Definition: He answered and said, Whether he be a sinner [or no], I know not: one thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful and profound verse from John 9:25. It’s a really interesting message about God’s love and forgiveness. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, the verse says: “Even though I was blind, God still sees me.” Let’s unpack that a bit: “He answered and said…” : John is talking to Jesus after he did something significant – perhaps he saw something or experienced something that made him momentarily blinded. “…Whether he be a sinner [or no], I know not:” This is the tricky part. Jesus isn’t saying he knows definitively whether this person was truly a sinner. It's more about recognizing their humanity and acknowledging their existence. “I know not” means he doesn’t have all the answers, but he acknowledges they’re here. “One thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see.” This is the core of the message. He does see! He's experiencing a profound shift in his perspective. What does this mean about God’s love and forgiveness? This verse highlights a few key ideas: God’s boundless love: It shows that even when we are flawed, struggling, or make mistakes, God loves us unconditionally. Forgiveness isn't based on perfectness: Jesus didn't need to know everything about this person to forgive them. His forgiveness is given regardless of how they've acted. It’s a gift of grace, not a judgment. The power of God's perspective: It suggests that God has a way of seeing beyond our limitations and recognizing our worth, even when we can’t see ourselves the same way. In short, this verse speaks to the idea that God doesn't just judge us; He embraces us fully, even when we struggle with our own imperfections. It's a powerful reminder of God’s love and forgiveness – offering a path toward redemption and acceptance. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this passage in more detail?

Definition: Then said they to him again, What did he to thee? how opened he thine eyes?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this famous verse from John 9:26. It's a really interesting and somewhat mysterious passage that gets at the core of God’s love and concern for us. Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: Jesus is asking about how he was blind. He’s essentially saying, “Can you explain to me how you were blind?” Let’s unpack it layer by layer: “Then said they to him again, What did he do to thee?” - This isn't a question of what happened to him. It's a questioning about the effect of something. They're trying to understand why he was blind. “How opened thine eyes?” – This is the key part. “Opened” means to let something in. So, they’re asking: "How did you allow your eyes to open?" Now, here’s what it suggests about Jesus' actions: The verse implies that Jesus was doing something – perhaps a miracle or an act of kindness – that allowed him to see. It suggests he wasn’t just physically blind; he had a spiritual blindness (a lack of understanding). Why is this important? This isn’t about a simple accident. It's a powerful symbol of: God’s boundless love: Jesus was so concerned with us that he took the time to truly understand our situation, even when we couldn’t see him clearly. The power of grace: It shows that God’s love isn't just about giving us sight; it’s about opening our hearts and minds to receive His gift of understanding and faith. In a nutshell, the verse is a reminder that God cares deeply for us and wants to help us see the truth. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Connect it to a particular theological concept (like grace)? Give you some context about why this passage is significant in biblical interpretation?

Definition: He answered them, I have told you already, and ye did not hear: wherefore would ye hear [it] again? will ye also be his disciples?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from John 9:27. It’s a really interesting and somewhat surprising passage about Jesus and how he wants to teach us something important. Here's the explanation in simpler terms: The Core Idea: Jesus is telling people that he wants to teach them a very specific truth – a truth about listening and understanding him. He’s essentially saying, "I want you to hear this message again ." Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “He answered them…” : Jesus is speaking to a group of people who were focused on something else – maybe they were debating or arguing. “…I have told you already…” : This part emphasizes that he's already shared this important message with them before. It’s not a brand new revelation. “And ye did not hear…” : This is the key part. The people didn’t understand or listen to what he said. They were preoccupied with something else, and they weren't truly receptive to his explanation. “…wherefore would ye hear [it] again?” : This asks a profound question: "Why should you keep hearing this message? Why isn't it important to you?" It implies that the message is vital and deserves repetition. What does it mean in a broader sense? Jesus wants to teach us something about listening intently and truly understanding . It’s not just about hearing the words; it’s about understanding what those words mean and accepting them completely. He's emphasizing that true faith comes from genuine attention and comprehension, not just passively receiving information. The "Disciples" part: Finally, Jesus adds “will ye also be his disciples?” This is a powerful instruction. It means that if you want to truly understand what he’s teaching, you must actively commit yourself to following him, learning from him, and living according to his teachings. It's about being a disciple – someone who is devoted to following Jesus and embodying his life. In short: Jesus wants us to be attentive, to really listen, and to wholeheartedly embrace the truth he’s sharing with us. --- Do you want me to explain any of this further? For example, would you like a deeper dive into the symbolism behind this verse, or perhaps how it relates to other parts of the Bible?

Definition: Then they reviled him, and said, Thou art his disciple; but we are Moses’ disciples.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from John 9:28. It's a really interesting and somewhat surprising statement. Here's the explanation in simple terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a moment when people were deeply upset with Jesus because he was speaking about the Old Testament law – the rules and commandments that were given to Moses. They felt like he wasn’t truly understanding them, and they started to criticize him. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Then they reviled him…” : This means they were angry and disrespectful towards Jesus. They weren’t just mildly annoyed; they were actively condemning him. “…and said, Thou art his disciple; but we are Moses’ disciples.” This is the core of the verse. Let's break it down further: “Thou art his disciple…” : This means they thought he was a true follower of Moses – someone who followed the rules and teachings of the Old Testament. They believed he was learning and understanding the law. “…but we are Moses’ disciples.” : This is where it gets interesting. The word “disciples” here refers to people who believe and follow Jesus, not just those who followed a specific set of rules. The "’" (which is an apostrophe – essentially a short 'a') adds a little emphasis and implies a deeper connection. So, it means we are the ones who are truly following Jesus and understanding his teachings. So, what's the message? Jesus was saying that even though they thought he wasn’t fully understanding the Old Testament law, they were the ones who truly believed in him and followed his teachings . It highlights the importance of genuine faith and commitment to following Jesus, rather than just rote adherence to rules. Why is this significant? This verse is often interpreted as a reminder that true discipleship isn't about simply memorizing laws; it’s about embracing and living those laws in our lives. It's about a deep, transformative relationship with Jesus that goes beyond just following rules. --- Do you want to explore any of these aspects further? For example: We could talk about the context of this verse in John 9:28 – where it happened and why it’s important. We can discuss what the verse might symbolize about faith and obedience.