Jesus’ miraculous healing of the blind man here is similar to His healing of the deaf and dumb man earlier on where He used also His spittle in His healing ministry. This time, Jesus applied His spittle to the eyes of the blind man. Once the spittle was applied, the man began to see. The darkness had been lifted and He was able to see the shadowy figures (“like trees”) of men walking. When Jesus put His hand upon his eyes a second time, his sight was completely restored, and he “saw every man clearly”—a 20/20 vision.

 

Why did Jesus heal in two steps when He could have healed this blind man instantly? Why did He use His spittle and His hands when He could have simply said the word? No reasons are given. Nonetheless, it is clear that Jesus’ actions here reveal not just His deity, but also His humanity. Jesus was not aloof, but had made Himself very close to the people. He was not distant and clinical in His treatment of man, but had that personal touch which displays His genuine sympathy and compassion for those who had come to Him for help. “For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need” (Heb 4:15,16).

 

Charismatic healers today often cite this text to prove that healing miracles are not always instantaneous. But such a citation is a misapplication of the text. This text does not at all support the kind of so-called healing miracles performed by so-called faith healers of today. The healing Jesus accomplished here was truly immediate. Although He healed in two steps, there was no long interval between them. The man was healed completely within minutes. Do we find this to be the case in modern-day charismatic healings? Often we see the same sickly ones visiting the so-called healer again and again, and even after many sessions, they are still not healed. Beware of charlatan healers!

 

THOUGHT: Man’s spit may be dirty, but Jesus’ spit is pure and good.

PRAYER: (Approach the throne of grace confidently with your needs.)