John 9:20

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

John 9:20 (KJV)

Context

John 9 records the healing of a man who was blind from birth. After Jesus healed him, the Pharisees questioned the man, then called his parents to verify the facts. In John 9:20, the parents answer the first of two questions: they confirm that this is their son and that he was born blind. They do not yet answer how he now sees; that is deferred to verse 21, where they direct the question to their son, who is of age.

Meaning

The parents affirm two things with certainty: the identity of their son and his lifelong blindness. Their knowledge is grounded in intimate, personal experience. Though his healing may have changed his appearance, his features and bodily marks remained recognizable, so they could assure the authorities of his identity and condition. Their answer is careful and limited: they confirm only what they know from direct observation, not the identity of the healer or the means of healing.

The parents’ response also reflects their fear. The narrative notes that the Jewish leaders had already agreed to expel from the synagogue anyone who confessed Jesus as the Christ (John 9:22). This explains why the parents stop short of acknowledging the miracle or its source. They speak truthfully but cautiously, protecting themselves while still providing essential testimony.

Biblical connections

The parents’ testimony underscores the reality of the miracle: the man was truly born blind, and his healing was a genuine, verifiable event, not fraud or collusion. Their limited answer sets the stage for the man’s own bold testimony later in the chapter, where he fearlessly declares what Jesus did for him. The contrast between the parents’ caution and the son’s courage highlights the cost of discipleship in the face of religious opposition.

Application

Like the parents, we can affirm what we know from personal experience. We may not have all the answers, but we can testify to what God has done in our lives. Their example also reminds us that fear can temper our witness. Yet we are called to trust God even when opposition arises, and to stand firm in our faith, knowing that the light of the world brings spiritual sight to all who believe.

Reflection

The parents’ answer is a model of honest, limited testimony. They did not overstate what they knew, nor did they deny the truth. In a world that often pressures us to remain silent, we can ask God for courage to speak the truth we know, while trusting Him with the outcomes.