Night Cometh!

The story of the healing of the man born blind is set in Jerusalem and took place as Jesus left the temple at the conclusion of the Feast of Tabernacles (8:59–9:1). [1]

A common belief in Jewish culture was that calamity or suffering was the result of some great sin. But Jesus used this man’s suffering to teach about faith and to glorify God. We live in a world where good behavior is not always rewarded and bad behavior is not always punished. Therefore, innocent people sometimes suffer. If God took suffering away whenever we asked, we would follow Him for comfort and convenience, not out of love and devotion. Regardless of the reasons for our suffering, Jesus has the power to help us deal with it and He promised never to leave us nor forsake us. Therefore, when you suffer from a disease, tragedy or handicap, don’t ask why did this happen to me, or what did I do wrong, but rather ask God to give you strength for the trial.

Talk about the connection between versers 4 and 5.

is cross referenced with , the meat about which Jesus was speaking was his spiritual nourishment. It includes more than Bible study, prayer, and attending church. Spiritual nourishment also comes from doing God’s will and helping to bring His work of salvation to completion. We are nourished not only by what we take in, but also by what we give out for God.

[1] Kruse, C. G. (2003). John: an introduction and commentary (Vol. 4, p. 217). Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press.