This verse from John 9:29 reflects the arrogance and closed-mindedness of the Pharisees who were questioning the man born blind who Jesus healed. Let's break it down:
"We know that God has spoken to Moses." This statement highlights the Pharisees' deep respect for the Law of Moses, which they believed was divinely revealed. Moses was a central figure in their religious tradition, and they saw themselves as faithful interpreters and guardians of his teachings.
"But as for this man..." This refers to Jesus. They're dismissing him and treating him with contempt.
"...we don’t know where he comes from.” This is the core of their objection. They're claiming ignorance about Jesus' origins and authority. This ignorance is deliberate and serves several purposes:
Avoiding Evidence: The healing of the blind man was a miracle that pointed to Jesus' divine power. The Pharisees didn't want to acknowledge this because it challenged their authority and understanding of the Messiah.
Discrediting Jesus: By claiming ignorance about his origins, they're suggesting that Jesus is an outsider, someone who doesn't fit within their established religious framework. This was a way to discredit him in the eyes of the people.
Maintaining Control: The Pharisees were concerned about losing their power and influence if people started believing in Jesus. Claiming ignorance was a way to maintain control and prevent people from following him.
In essence, the Pharisees are saying, "We trust in the established authority of Moses and the Law. This Jesus is a stranger to us. We don't recognize his authority, and therefore we reject him." It showcases their unwillingness to consider evidence that contradicted their preconceived notions and their commitment to preserving their own power and status. It highlights the conflict between faith and rigid adherence to tradition. It is also quite ironic, considering Jesus does come from God, a claim that Jesus himself makes.
This verse from John 9:29 reflects the arrogance and closed-mindedness of the Pharisees who were questioning the man born blind who Jesus healed. Let's break it down:
"We know that God has spoken to Moses." This statement highlights the Pharisees' deep respect for the Law of Moses, which they believed was divinely revealed. Moses was a central figure in their religious tradition, and they saw themselves as faithful interpreters and guardians of his teachings.
"But as for this man..." This refers to Jesus. They're dismissing him and treating him with contempt.
"...we don’t know where he comes from.” This is the core of their objection. They're claiming ignorance about Jesus' origins and authority. This ignorance is deliberate and serves several purposes:
Avoiding Evidence: The healing of the blind man was a miracle that pointed to Jesus' divine power. The Pharisees didn't want to acknowledge this because it challenged their authority and understanding of the Messiah.
Discrediting Jesus: By claiming ignorance about his origins, they're suggesting that Jesus is an outsider, someone who doesn't fit within their established religious framework. This was a way to discredit him in the eyes of the people.
Maintaining Control: The Pharisees were concerned about losing their power and influence if people started believing in Jesus. Claiming ignorance was a way to maintain control and prevent people from following him.
In essence, the Pharisees are saying, "We trust in the established authority of Moses and the Law. This Jesus is a stranger to us. We don't recognize his authority, and therefore we reject him." It showcases their unwillingness to consider evidence that contradicted their preconceived notions and their commitment to preserving their own power and status. It highlights the conflict between faith and rigid adherence to tradition. It is also quite ironic, considering Jesus does come from God, a claim that Jesus himself makes.
