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.
John 9:25 (KJV)
Context
John 9:25 records the healed blind man’s response during his second interrogation by the Pharisees. They had already questioned him once, and his parents, fearing excommunication, had deferred to their son. Now the religious leaders press him again about Jesus.
Meaning
“He answered and said“: The man who was formerly blind responds directly to the religious leaders’ questions about Jesus’ identity and his own healing.
“Whether he be a sinner or no, I know not“: He acknowledges that he lacks knowledge or a definitive judgment about Jesus’ character. He does not debate the Pharisees’ accusation that Jesus is a sinner; he simply cannot settle that question.
“One thing I know“: Despite his uncertainty about Jesus, the man firmly affirms his personal experience of being blind and now seeing. His testimony rests on an undeniable fact, not on theological argument.
Biblical connections
The man’s reply contrasts with the Pharisees’ confident but false assertion that Jesus is a sinner. His “one thing I know” is a powerful, humble witness. The narrative continues with his boldness growing: he later marvels that the Pharisees do not know where Jesus is from, yet He opened his eyes, and he reasons that God does not hear sinners. The chapter concludes with Jesus finding the man and revealing Himself as the Son of God, leading the man to worship. This shows that a personal encounter with Christ’s work provides a foundation for witness that does not require a full understanding of all theological questions.
Application
Share your testimony: Like the blind man, take opportunities to share your personal experience of encountering Jesus with others. Your testimony can be a powerful tool for pointing people to the transformative work of Christ in your life.
Trust in Jesus: When facing challenges or uncertainties, place your trust in Jesus. Even if you don’t have all the answers, hold firmly to the experiences and encounters that have strengthened your faith.
Cultivate humility: Approach matters of faith with humility, recognizing that our understanding is limited and that we are continually learning and growing in our relationship with God. Be open to new insights and perspectives as you seek to deepen your faith.
Reflection
The healed man’s words remind us that a personal encounter with Christ’s work is a sufficient starting point for faith and testimony. While we may not have answers to every question, we can confidently declare what God has done in our lives. Such an experience is meant to lead us to a fuller knowledge of Christ, just as it did for the man when Jesus revealed Himself to him.
