John 9:39
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
John 9:39
39 And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind.
Chapter Context
John 9 is a theological gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of wisdom, love, creation. Written during the late first century CE (c. 90-95 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Addressed late first-century challenges from both Judaism and emerging Gnostic thought.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-41: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within John and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
John 9:39
39 And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind.
Analysis
'And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind.' Jesus explains the deeper meaning. His coming produces a great reversal: the humble blind receive sight; the proud 'seeing' become blind. Judgment isn't separate from ministry—it occurs through response to Jesus. Those who acknowledge blindness receive sight; those claiming sight remain in darkness.
Historical Context
This reversal appears throughout Luke (1:51-53, 18:14). The proud are humbled; the humble exalted. Jesus' presence reveals hearts—those who recognize need receive help; those who deny need remain helpless.
Reflection
- How does response to Jesus function as judgment?
- Why does claiming to 'see' produce blindness while admitting blindness leads to sight?
Cross-References
- References Jesus: John 8:12
- Parallel theme: John 3:19, 12:46, Luke 1:79, 4:18, Acts 26:18, 1 John 2:11