Here are some questions based on last Sunday’s sermon text (John 9:13-34), in case they’re helpful to you for personal growth or group discussion…

• The Pharisees’ increasing anger and hostility toward Jesus (and those associated with Jesus) reveals their fear; they feel Jesus is a serious threat. How is he a threat to them? What in your life is threatened by Jesus? Are you aware of places in your life where you are afraid of him or angry at him (or those who represent him)? Where you would rather he not intrude? Where you resent his claim?

• [18-23] The blind man’s parents fear excommunication, and it overwhelms even their love for their own son. Whose rejection do you fear? Do you believe that God has truly moved toward you with full acceptance? Why do you believe what you believe about that?

• [24-34] The blind man doesn’t know much about Jesus, but he knows Jesus has been good to him, and is willing to face the world’s hostility with courage because of it. There are often severe (relational, social, financial, physical) consequences for those associated with Jesus. Does Jesus’ association with you give you courage to face such things?