John 9:25

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.

{G3767} He {G1565} answered {G611} and {G2532} said {G2036}, Whether {G1487} he be {G2076} a sinner {G268} or no, I know {G1492} not {G3756}: one thing {G1520} I know {G1492}, that {G3754}, whereas I was {G5607} blind {G5185}, now {G737} I see {G991}.

He answered, “Whether he’s a sinner or not I don’t know. One thing I do know: I was blind, now I see.”

He answered, “Whether He is a sinner I do not know. There is one thing I do know: I was blind, but now I see!”

He therefore answered, Whether he is a sinner, I know not: one thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see.

Commentary

John 9:25 captures a pivotal moment in the story of the man born blind, whose sight was miraculously restored by Jesus. Faced with relentless questioning from the skeptical Pharisees, the man offers a profound and simple declaration that cuts through their theological debate and legalistic accusations.

Context

This verse is the climax of the man's interrogation by the Jewish religious leaders. The preceding verses (John 9:1-7) describe how Jesus healed the man by anointing his eyes with clay and sending him to wash in the Pool of Siloam. This miracle, performed on the Sabbath, sparked intense controversy among the Pharisees, who were more concerned with adherence to their interpretation of the law than with the undeniable act of divine power. They repeatedly questioned the man and his parents, attempting to discredit Jesus by claiming He was a sinner for healing on the Sabbath (John 9:16). The man's response in verse 25 is his resolute answer to their attempts to force him to condemn Jesus.

Key Themes

  • The Power of Personal Testimony: The man's declaration, "one thing I know," emphasizes the undeniable reality of his personal experience with Jesus. His testimony is not based on theological arguments or legalistic interpretations, but on a transformative encounter. This highlights that a genuine experience with Christ is often the most powerful form of witness.
  • Spiritual vs. Physical Blindness: While the man gained physical sight, the Pharisees remained spiritually blind, unable or unwilling to see the divine power at work through Jesus. Their blindness was a matter of the heart, refusing to acknowledge the truth despite overwhelming evidence. Jesus later addresses this directly in John 9:39-41.
  • Simplicity of Faith: The man's response is remarkably simple and direct. He doesn't engage in complex theological arguments; he states a clear, undeniable fact. This illustrates that faith often thrives in simplicity, focusing on the core truth of what God has done.
  • Encounter with Jesus Transforms: The man's life was irrevocably changed by his encounter with Jesus. He moved from darkness to light, both physically and spiritually. This miracle serves as a metaphor for the spiritual transformation available to all who encounter Christ.

Linguistic Insights

The man's powerful contrast between "I know not" (οὐκ οἶδα, ouk oida) and "one thing I know" (ἓν οἶδα, hen oida) highlights the certainty of his personal experience over speculative debate. The Greek word oida signifies a knowledge gained through observation or intuition, a firm conviction. He acknowledges his ignorance of their theological labels for Jesus ("sinner or no") but stands firm on the undeniable truth of his own transformation: "whereas I was blind, now I see." This powerful antithesis underscores the primacy of direct experience with God's power.

Practical Application

John 9:25 serves as a timeless encouragement for believers today:

  • Embrace Your Personal Testimony: Like the man born blind, we may not have all the answers to every theological question, but we can confidently share what Christ has done in our lives. Our personal story of transformation is a powerful witness that cannot be easily refuted.
  • Focus on the Core Truth: In a world filled with complexity and conflicting opinions, remember the essential truth of the Gospel: Jesus transforms lives. We can stand firm on the reality of being moved from spiritual darkness to light (Colossians 1:13).
  • Stand Firm Against Opposition: The man faced intense pressure to deny Jesus. His unwavering response reminds us to remain steadfast in our faith, even when challenged or ridiculed for our beliefs.

Reflection

The man born blind represents anyone who has experienced the life-changing power of Jesus. His simple yet profound declaration, "whereas I was blind, now I see," cuts through intellectual arguments and highlights the undeniable evidence of God's work. It's a testament to the fact that a personal encounter with Christ is the most compelling proof of His identity and power, enabling us to truly see.

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Cross-References

  • John 5:11 (5 votes)

    He answered them, He that made me whole, the same said unto me, Take up thy bed, and walk.

  • John 9:30 (5 votes)

    The man answered and said unto them, Why herein is a marvellous thing, that ye know not from whence he is, and [yet] he hath opened mine eyes.

  • 1 John 5:10 (5 votes)

    ¶ He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son.