Opening Your Bible
Loading study tools and insights...
LOADING
Loading study tools and insights...
Loading study tools and insights...
John 9:40 (BSB)
Some of the Pharisees who were with Him heard this, and they asked Him, “Are we blind too?”
THE HOLY BIBLE
ListenListen · Chapter audio
Hear this chapter read aloud — the verse you’re on highlights as the reading moves forward.
Chapter read aloud · verse highlights follow along
Scripture quotations (main text) are from the Berean Study Bible (BSB), © 2016, 2018 by Bible Hub. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), ©2001 by Crossway, is used for comparison and word study only.
Bible Copyright & Permissions“Some of the Pharisees who were with Him heard this, and they asked Him, “Are we blind too?”” — John 9:40
In this moment, you see some Pharisees, who were the religious leaders of the time, feeling defensive and challenged by what Jesus has said. They ask, 'Are we also blind?' It’s like they’re standing there, feeling the pressure of the truth Jesus is sharing, and they’re not quite sure how to handle it. This question reflects their fear of being wrong or missing something crucial. It’s an emotional moment where pride clashes with a deeper realization that they might be missing the point entirely.
This book, John, was written by one of Jesus’ closest friends, who wanted to share the incredible story of Jesus with everyone. John had a special perspective; he was there, witnessing the miracles and the challenges. He included this specific detail about the Pharisees to highlight the conflict between Jesus and the established religious thought of the time. His goal was to show how Jesus brought a new understanding of faith and sight, challenging the old ways and inviting everyone to see things differently.
When John wrote these words, the world was buzzing with the tension between the Roman Empire and the Jewish people. It was a time of great religious and social upheaval. People were searching for hope and answers, and Jesus’ message was shaking things up. The Pharisees, who were supposed to be the spiritual leaders, were feeling their authority being questioned. This context helps us understand the stakes of their question and the urgency behind it; they were protecting their status while grappling with the new light Jesus was bringing.
This specific verse matters today because it invites you to reflect on your own perspective. Are there areas in your life where you might be blind to the truth? It’s a powerful reminder that we all have blind spots—things we might not see or understand fully. It encourages you to seek clarity and openness in your beliefs and relationships. Just like the Pharisees, you might find that asking the right questions can lead to deeper truths and understanding.
This week, take a moment to reflect on your own life. Are there beliefs or assumptions you hold that might need a little reevaluation? Try asking questions about your perspectives—whether about your job, relationships, or even your understanding of faith. You could talk to someone you trust and share your thoughts, or write down your reflections in a journal. Being open to new insights can illuminate areas you didn’t even realize were dark.
To understand this moment, imagine the tension building up in the story. Earlier, Jesus has just healed a man who was born blind, showing that he has the power to bring light where there was darkness. The Pharisees are grappling with how to respond to this miracle and the implications of Jesus’ identity. This question from them serves as a pivot; it’s their way of confronting the uncomfortable truth that they might be the ones lacking insight. It highlights their struggle and sets the stage for further dialogue about true sight versus spiritual blindness.
When you think about the Pharisees' question, 'Are we also blind?', what areas in your life do you feel you might need to look at more closely?
Keep reading the full John 9:40 study — free
Sign Up or Login Free