John 9:15
Then again the Pharisees also asked him how he had received his sight. He said unto them, He put clay upon mine eyes, and I washed, and do see.
John 9:15 (KJV)
Context
This verse records the Pharisees’ second inquiry about the healing of the man born blind. It comes immediately after they had brought the man to them (John 9:13) and follows the note that Jesus made clay and opened his eyes on the Sabbath (John 9:14). Their questioning focuses on the method and means of the healing, not on the identity of the healer.
Meaning
The man’s response is a simple, factual repetition of his earlier testimony: Jesus put clay on his eyes, he washed, and now he sees. He does not vary his account, remaining consistent with what he told his neighbors in John 9:11. His reply is direct and unembellished, reporting only what was done to him and what he did in obedience.
Biblical connections
The healing involved Jesus making clay from spit and dirt, applying it to the man’s eyes, and sending him to wash in the pool of Siloam, which means ‘Sent’ (John 9:6-7). The use of clay holds symbolic significance, often representing human frailty and the need for divine intervention. By using clay, Jesus demonstrated His power and authority as the Creator who can bring restoration to brokenness. The physical blindness of the man is a metaphor for spiritual blindness. The Pharisees, despite witnessing the miraculous healing, remained spiritually blind because they rejected Jesus’ authority.
Application
The man’s healing required his obedience to Jesus’ command to wash his eyes. His act of obedience demonstrates faith and trust in Jesus’ words. It reminds us that faith often involves stepping out in obedience, even when we may not fully understand or see the outcome. The man who was healed had a humble and teachable spirit, whereas the Pharisees were proud and resistant to Jesus’ message. The man’s simple testimony stood in stark contrast to the Pharisees’ skepticism and unbelief.
Application: This passage invites us to reflect on our own spiritual sight. Are we open to receiving the truth of God’s Word and recognizing Jesus as the Son of God? Are we willing to obey His teachings, even when they may challenge our preconceived notions or go against societal expectations?
Reflection
The man’s consistent witness under examination is a model for believers. When questioned, he simply repeated what Jesus had done for him. His testimony was not elaborate or defensive, but faithful and true. This encourages us to share our own encounters with Christ plainly and persistently, trusting that the Holy Spirit uses simple, honest witness to glorify God.
