Irritation (1–12). By putting clay on the man’s eyes, Jesus encouraged him to obey and wash on the Sabbath. Sometimes the Lord irritates us before He illuminates us. His power is so great that He can use common things like dirt and water to produce a miracle. The man could hear but not see, and the Word produced faith (Rom. 10:17).
Interrogation (13–34). The man was questioned by the neighbors (v. 10) and by the Pharisees (vv. 15, 19, 26). Instead of seeking the truth and the freedom it brings (8:32), the Pharisees denied the truth and ended up in worse bondage. If we ask questions sincerely, with a willingness to obey, the Lord will lead us to the truth (7:17). If we are not honest with God, He will never show us His light.
Identification (35–41). The Pharisees were false shepherds who threw the man out, but Jesus the Good Shepherd took him in! The man knew that He was “a Man called Jesus” (v. 11), “a prophet” (v. 17), and “a Man of God” (v. 33); but he needed to learn that He is “the Son of God” (v. 35). He believed and was saved. Beware a spiritual experience that comes short of true salvation.
