John 9:17
They say unto the blind man again, What sayest thou of him, that he hath opened thine eyes? He said, He is a prophet.
John 9:17
In verse 17, the Pharisees press the healed man again, asking for his verdict on Jesus. He responds, “He is a prophet.” The man’s transformation from blind recipient to articulate witness marks a spiritual growth arc: He moves from passive beneficiary to active interpreter of Jesus’ identity. The man’s statement also reflects the limited, yet growing, perception among some who recognize God’s hand but still hesitate to attribute it to the Messiah or divine Son. It’s significant that a layman becomes the voice acknowledging prophetic recognition, prompting readers to question how we respond when popular opinion aligns with truth discovered through experience, rather than through institutional authority.
The verse highlights the progressive unveiling of Jesus’ identity. The term “prophet” acknowledges a recognized role in Israel’s story but hints that fuller revelation remains. It shows that faith matures from seeing a miracle to naming, even imperfectly, who Jesus is. Theologically, it points to the broad arc of John’s Gospel: belief grows as evidence meets interpretation, and personal encounter increasingly informs faith. It also underscores the responsibility of leaders to listen to those who are new witnesses.
Encourage personal testimony within your community. Younger or newer believers may spot truth in ways you hadn’t expected. Create space for questions and reflections, not only polished dogma. Practical example: host a Q&A or listening session after a sermon where attendees can say, “I see Jesus as a prophet,” or “I see Jesus as more,” and explore together. Handling humility in leadership matters—leaders should avoid premature rejection of new witnesses and instead evaluate the fruits of transformed lives. The goal is a faith that grows through honest engagement with God’s work in the world.
Cross-References: Acts 3:22-23; John 1:21; John 6:14; 2 Peter 1:16; Luke 7:16