New Testament

John 9:23

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, the parents of a man who was healed of blindness are responding to the questioning of the religious leaders.

Author
John the apostle
Written
Around AD 85-95
Genre
Gospel
Original Audience
All believers
CBTClear Bible Translation

That is why his parents said, "He is of age; ask him."

KJVKing James Version

Therefore said his parents, He is of age; ask him.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, the parents of a man who was healed of blindness are responding to the questioning of the religious leaders. They assert that their son is old enough to speak for himself regarding his healing. This indicates their reluctance to get involved in the controversy surrounding Jesus and the miracle. By saying, "He is of age; ask him," they are deferring responsibility and protecting themselves from potential backlash. The parents likely feared the consequences of openly supporting Jesus, as the religious authorities were hostile towards Him. This moment highlights the tension between faith and fear, as well as the challenges faced by those who witness miracles but may not be ready to fully embrace the implications of those events. It also emphasizes the importance of personal testimony in matters of faith, as the healed man is the one who can truly speak about his experience. Explore related anxiety.

Related topics

anxiety, fear, prayer

How to apply John 9:23 to your life

This verse encourages us to stand firm in our beliefs and experiences, even when faced with pressure from others. It reminds us that our personal testimonies are powerful and can inspire others. We should be willing to share our stories of faith, regardless of the potential consequences.

Curated for this public verse page. John Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does John 9:23 mean?

John 9:23 shows the parents of a healed blind man stating that he is old enough to speak for himself. This reflects their reluctance to engage with the religious leaders and the potential repercussions of supporting Jesus.

What is the significance of the phrase 'He is of age' in John 9:23?

The phrase 'He is of age' indicates that the man can make his own decisions and speak for himself. It highlights the parents' desire to avoid conflict and their fear of the religious authorities.

Why did the parents say to ask their son in John 9:23?

The parents said to ask their son because they wanted to avoid the controversy surrounding Jesus and protect themselves from potential consequences of supporting Him.

How does John 9:23 relate to personal testimony?

John 9:23 emphasizes the importance of personal testimony, as the healed man is the one who can truly share his experience. It suggests that individual accounts of faith are powerful and significant.

The Book of John
Book Summary

The Book of John

John 1: The Word Made Flesh and the First Disciples

In the beginning is the Word, and the Word is with God, and the Word is God. All things are made by him, and in him is life, and the life is the light of men. The light shines in darkness, and the darkness does not overcome it. John the Baptist is sent from God to bear witness of the Light. He says he is not the Christ but comes to testify of him. The Word is made flesh and dwells among them, full of grace and truth. John bears witness and says that the one coming after him is preferred before him because he is before him.

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