The Light of the World (John 9: 1-12)

This Sermon was given at Casey

Series: The 7 Signs of John

Introduction & Context
In John 9:1-7, Jesus encounters a man blind from birth. His disciples ask, "Who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?" Jesus challenges this belief, shifting focus from blame to 
purpose, showing that the man’s blindness is an opportunity for God’s power to be revealed.

Jesus performs an unusual miracle by spitting on the ground, making mud, and applying it to the 
man’s eyes. He instructs the man to wash in the Pool of Siloam, and upon doing so, the man’s sight is restored.

This passage teaches us about Jesus as the Light of the World—who heals physical blindness and opens spiritual eyes. It challenges us to rethink suffering, obedience, and our own blindness to God’s work in our lives.

Icebreaker Question:
Can you recall a time when you were in complete darkness, like during a power outage or in a 
cave? How did it feel, and what changed when light was introduced?

1. Seeing Through the Wrong Lens (Read John 9:1-3)

Why do you think the disciples believed the man’s blindness was due to sin?
In what ways do we sometimes view suffering as punishment?
Jesus said the man’s blindness was to display God’s works. How does this change our 
perspective on challenges and hardships?

2. A Step of Faith (Read John 9:4-7)

Why do you think Jesus used mud and instructed the man to wash instead of healing him 
instantly?
The man had to take action before he could see. What does this teach us about faith and 
obedience?
Have you ever felt called to take a step of faith that didn’t make sense at the time? What was the 
outcome?

3. Responding to Transformation (Read John 9:8-12)

Why do you think those around the blind man struggled to accept his transformation?
How can we respond when others doubt the change God has made in our lives?
The man simply said, “I was blind, but now I see.” How can we share our faith simply and 
authentically?

4. Reflection: Who Am I in This Story?

Do you relate to the disciples—quick to judge without truly understanding the person?
Do you relate to the blind man—experiencing transformation but still adjusting to it?
Do you relate to the neighbours—struggling to believe in the change God is doing?
Do you relate to the Pharisees—resistant to new ways God is moving?

5. Applying This to Our Lives

Read Romans 8:28—how does trusting that God has a purpose in suffering change how we face 
hard times?
How can we support others in their struggles without offering shallow encouragement or 
judgment?
Where in your life might Jesus be inviting you to see differently?

Closing Prayer:
Pray for eyes to see people and situations as God does.
Pray for trust in God’s greater purpose, even in difficult seasons.
Pray for courage to take steps of faith, even when they don’t make sense.