John 9:31

“Now we know that God heareth not sinners: but if any man be a worshipper of God, and doeth his will, him he heareth.”

Context and Background:In John 9, Jesus encounters a man who was born blind, and He spits on the ground, makes clay with His saliva, anoints the man’s eyes, and instructs him to wash in the pool of Siloam. After obeying Jesus, the man is miraculously healed and gains his sight.

This verse is part of the narrative of Jesus healing a man who was born blind. It follows the dialogue between Jesus, the man born blind, and the Pharisees who questioned the legitimacy of the healing.

Understanding the Verse:

• “Now we know that God heareth not sinners”:

This statement refers to the understanding that God does not generally respond to the prayers or requests of those who are living in unrepentant sin. Sin creates a separation between humans and God (Isaiah 59:2), and it is only through repentance and faith that one can be reconciled with God.

b. “But if any man be a worshipper of God”:

This phrase indicates that those who genuinely worship and reverence God have a special relationship with Him. It implies a deep devotion and commitment to living according to God’s principles.

c. “And doeth his will, him he heareth”:

Here, it is emphasized that those who not only claim to be worshippers of God but also actively strive to obey His will, are the ones whom God hears. God is attentive to the prayers and petitions of those who sincerely seek to align their lives with His purposes.

Key Insights and Lessons:a. The importance of genuine worship: This verse highlights the significance of sincere worship. It is not enough to merely claim to worship God, but our worship should be accompanied by a genuine desire to follow and obey Him.

b. The role of obedience: The verse underscores the importance of doing God’s will. Our relationship with God is not just about what we say or believe, but it is also reflected in our actions. Obedience is an essential component of a faithful life.

c. The impact of sin on prayer: Although God is gracious and merciful, unrepentant sin hinders our communication with Him. To enjoy a close and vibrant relationship with God, we must acknowledge our sins, repent, and seek His forgiveness.

Application:

• Cultivate a heart of worship:Develop a genuine desire to worship and reverence God in all areas of your life. Let your worship extend beyond formal religious practices and permeate your thoughts, attitudes, and actions.
• Seek to know and do God’s will:Dedicate time to study and understand God’s Word, and endeavor to apply His principles in your daily life. Strive to align your decisions and actions with His will, seeking His guidance through prayer.
• Repentance and humility:Recognize the presence of sin in your life and approach God with a humble heart. Confess your sins, seek forgiveness, and make a conscious effort to turn away from sinful behaviors.
• Trust in God’s faithfulness:Remember that God is attentive to the prayers of those who earnestly seek Him. Trust in His faithfulness and rely on His guidance and provision in all circumstances.

By studying and applying the teachings in John 9:31, we can deepen our understanding of worship, obedience, and the importance of a repentant heart before God.