"The Journey of Faith: From Encounter to Worship"
A journey through the ninth chapter of the Gospel of John. In this chapter, we witness a powerful story of transformation and faith as we follow the life of a man who had a remarkable encounter with Jesus. As we explore John 9:1-38, we will see how this man's faith in Jesus grew from a simple encounter to profound worship.
Jesus came to the earth to open the eyes of the blind; both physically and spiritually blind (v. 39-41) Acts 26:18
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I. The Encounter with Jesus (John 9:1-6)
In the opening verses of John 9, we encounter a man who has been blind from birth. His life has been one of darkness and dependency. But then comes Jesus. He sees the blind man and spits on the ground, making a paste with the saliva, which He then applies to the man's eyes.
He instructs the man to wash in the pool of Siloam. The blind man obeys, and in that very moment, his life is forever changed. This encounter with Jesus becomes the catalyst for an incredible journey of faith.
How Jesus Attracted People to Him
- Jesus spoke “to” people, not “at” them (John 4:7).
- Jesus transformed ordinary conversations into spiritual conversations (John 4:10, 13-14).
- Jesus gave people reasons to follow Him (John 4:13-14).
- Jesus did not force anyone (John 4:26-28).
- Jesus created intentional encounters (John 4:4).
II. Faith in Jesus (John 9:6-7)
As the blind man obeys Jesus' command to wash in the pool of Siloam, he experiences a miraculous healing. Suddenly, the darkness that had shrouded his life is lifted, and he can see. His faith in Jesus begins to take root as he realizes that this man, Jesus, is more than just a passing stranger. He recognizes that Jesus possesses a divine authority that transcends human understanding.
- If we do not believe, our prayers will not be answered. (James 5:16).
- You have to believe to be healed by the Lord (Luke 17:11-19).
- “If you believe, you can…” (Acts 8:37).
- You have to believe to see heaven (2 Corinthians 5:1-10).
- 1. We walk by faith and not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7) (Hebrews 11:6) (John 8:24).
III. The Authority of Jesus (John 9:8-12)
News of the blind man's healing spreads rapidly, and the people are astonished. They bring him before the Pharisees, seeking answers about this incredible event. The Pharisees question the man, and he testifies about the authority and power of Jesus, even though he does not yet fully understand who Jesus is. His simple yet profound testimony reveals the transformative impact of encountering Jesus.
- He forgives sins (Mark 2:5-11). Only God can forgive sins.
- He is the creator and maker of all things (Colossians 1:16)
- He is the Sustainer of all things (Hebrews 1:3). Only God can control the universe.
- He claimed to have “all authority…in heaven and on earth” (Mt 28:18).
IV. The Testimony of Jesus (John 9:25)
As the Pharisees continue to interrogate the healed man, they seek to discredit Jesus. However, the man's faith and understanding continue to grow. Faced with relentless questioning, he declares, "Whether he is a sinner, I do not know. One thing I do know, that though I was blind, now I see." In this powerful statement, he acknowledges the undeniable change in his life brought about by Jesus. His testimony is a declaration of faith in Jesus' transformative power.
- Witness with your life; live so that others can see Christ in you (2 Cor. 3:2 and Gal. 2:20)
- Witness with your mouth, trusting the Holy Spirit to give power to the spoken word (2 Cor. 9:6)
- Witness with tithes and offerings so that others may preach Christ, and you will have "abundant fruit (rewards) to your account" (Phil. 4:15 and 2 Cor. 9:6)
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V. The Worship of Jesus (John 9:38)
As the story unfolds, Jesus seeks out the man who was blind and reveals Himself as the Son of God. In response to this revelation, the man falls down and worships Jesus. His journey, which began with a simple encounter, has now led him to profound worship. He recognizes Jesus not only as a healer but as the Lord of his life.
- Worship in spirit and truth – John 4:24
- To worship Him is to love Him – heart, soul, mind, strength – Mark 12:30
- Sermon on Isaiah 43: God's love, His redemptive power
- Sermon on Psalm 46: My Refuge and Strength is in the Lord
- Sermon on John 15: The True Vine and its Fruit
Conclusion:
The story of the blind man in John 9 teaches us about the transformative power of an encounter with Jesus. Like this man, our faith can grow from a simple encounter to profound worship when we recognize Jesus' authority, testify to His work in our lives, and ultimately acknowledge Him as Lord. May this story inspire us to deepen our faith and lead lives of worship, giving glory to the One who brings light into our darkness.
