February 24

Introduction

John 9:13–41: Today’s reading begins by introducing a controversy over violation of the Sabbath law. The Pharisees and the Jewish authorities question both the healed man and his parents, and they expel the healed man from the synagogue. According to verse 22, the Jewish authorities threatened to expel anyone who became a follower of Jesus. The chapter concludes with Jesus confronting the Pharisees about their own spiritual blindness.

Today’s Key Verse: John 9:39

Jesus said, “I came to this world to judge, so that the blind should see and those who see should become blind.”

Reflect

How does the healed man describe Jesus (verse 17)? How does he respond to the Jewish authorities after they insult him (verses 30–33)? What does he confess to Jesus (verse 38)?

You may be familiar with the hymn, “Amazing Grace,” which is based on the healed man’s statement in verse 25. What is your understanding of Jesus’s statement in verse 39? In verses 40 and 41, how does Jesus respond to the Pharisees? What does he say to them about their “blindness”?

Pray

Dear Jesus, truly you offer me amazing grace by revealing God’s love to me and offering me forgiveness of my sins, salvation, and eternal life. Help me to see you more clearly each day and lovingly serve you. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

John 10:1–21: Jesus is the Good Shepherd.