Luke 18:35-43
Chapter 18
35
When Jesus approached Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the road begging.
36
When he heard the crowd passing by, he asked what was happening
37
and they told him that Jesus of Nazareth was passing by.
38
Then he cried out:
“Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!”
39
The people in front of him scolded him, saying:
“Be quiet!” but he shouted even louder:
“Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!”
40
Jesus stopped and ordered the blind man to be brought to him; and when he came near, Jesus asked him:
41
“What do you want me to do for you?”
The man said:
“Lord, that I may see!”
42
Jesus replied:
“Receive your sight; your faith has saved you.”
43
Immediately, the blind man was able to see, and he followed Jesus, praising God. All those who were there also praised God.
Commentaries
The Healing of the Blind Beggar.
Luke highlights in this passage that the Twelve did not understand what Jesus revealed about his final destiny. In contrast, he shares the story of a blind man who, despite his own blindness and the external barriers that prevent him from approaching Jesus, recognizes the true identity of the Master. The blind man identifies him as the Messiah (Son of David), then calls him Lord, and finally gives glory to God and follows him. Luke uses this story to show that, even with all five senses intact, a person is not always able to know and choose Jesus truly.