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What Did Jesus Mean When He Said “The Blind Leading the Blind”? – Viral Believer
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What Did Jesus Mean When He Said “The Blind Leading the Blind”?

Introduction

As followers of Christ, we strive to understand the teachings of Jesus and apply them to our lives. One of the intriguing phrases Jesus used is “the blind leading the blind.”

In this blog post, we will delve into this phrase, examine the context in which Jesus used it, and explore its implications for our lives as Christians. Let us embark on this journey together, to better understand the wisdom and guidance that Jesus offers us in the New Testament.

The phrase “the blind leading the blind” is found in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke. In these texts, Jesus uses this vivid image to convey a profound truth about spiritual insight and the consequences of following misguided teachers.

By examining these passages closely, we can discover the heart of Jesus’ message and learn to discern who we should follow and how we should lead others.

In the following sections, we will discuss the biblical context of the “blind leading the blind” phrase, explore its meaning, and reflect on its application in our lives today.

Our goal is to grow in wisdom and faith, becoming better equipped to discern truth and share it with those around us.

The Biblical Context

Matthew 15:12-14

In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus shares the parable of “the blind leading the blind” with His disciples. This occurs after He has a confrontation with the Pharisees, who are upset by Jesus’ apparent disregard for their traditions.

The Pharisees criticize the disciples for not washing their hands before eating, a tradition they considered essential for maintaining ritual purity.

Jesus responds to the Pharisees by pointing out their hypocrisy and lack of spiritual understanding.

He quotes Isaiah 29:13, stating, “These people draw near to Me with their mouth, And honor Me with their lips, But their heart is far from Me. And in vain they worship Me, Teaching as doctrines the commandments of men” (Matthew 15:8-9, NKJV).

After this exchange, Jesus’ disciples ask if He is aware that His words have offended the Pharisees. Jesus replies:

“Every plant which My heavenly Father has not planted will be uprooted. Let them alone. They are blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind leads the blind, both will fall into a ditch” (Matthew 15:13-14, NKJV).

Luke 6:39-40

In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus uses the phrase “the blind leading the blind” as part of His Sermon on the Plain. In this context, Jesus teaches His disciples about the importance of examining their own lives before judging others. He says:

“Can the blind lead the blind? Will they not both fall into the ditch? A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone who is perfectly trained will be like his teacher” (Luke 6:39-40, NKJV).

The Meaning of the Phrase

The phrase “the blind leading the blind” serves as a powerful metaphor for the dangers of following spiritually blind leaders. Jesus uses this image to emphasize the importance of discerning who we allow to guide us in our spiritual journey.

By referring to the Pharisees as “blind leaders,” Jesus highlights their lack of spiritual insight and understanding. Despite their religious authority and knowledge of the Scriptures, the Pharisees were unable to recognize the truth of Jesus’ teachings.

In both Matthew and Luke, Jesus warns that following a blind leader will result in disastrous consequences. In Matthew, He says that both the leader and the follower will “fall into a ditch,” while in Luke, He points out that the blind cannot lead the blind without both falling into the ditch.

These images convey the idea that following a misguided teacher can lead to spiritual ruin and a life disconnected from the true path that God intends for us.

Moreover, Jesus emphasizes the importance of discipleship and personal growth in spiritual understanding. In Luke 6:40, He states that a disciple who is “perfectly trained” will become like their teacher.

This underscores the need for Christians to be intentional in choosing wise and discerning teachers who can guide them in their walk with God. The implication is that by following Christ and aligning ourselves with His teachings, we can grow in spiritual maturity and become effective leaders in our own right.

Applying the Lesson Today

As Christians, we must be vigilant in discerning who we follow and allow to influence our spiritual lives. In our modern world, there are countless voices claiming to hold the truth, many of which may be just as misguided as the Pharisees in Jesus’ time.

To avoid falling into the ditch alongside a blind leader, we need to cultivate discernment and continually turn to the Word of God as our ultimate source of truth.

One practical way to develop spiritual discernment is by engaging in regular Bible study and prayer. As we immerse ourselves in Scripture and seek God’s guidance, we become better equipped to recognize false teachings and identify wise, godly leaders to follow.

It is also essential to surround ourselves with a community of believers who are committed to pursuing Christ and holding each other accountable.

Additionally, we must remember that as followers of Christ, we are called to be leaders in our own right. This means that we have a responsibility to grow in our spiritual understanding and serve as examples for others.

As we become more like our Teacher, Jesus Christ, we can guide others along the path of faith and help them avoid the pitfalls of following blind leaders.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Jesus’ teaching on “the blind leading the blind” serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of spiritual discernment and the consequences of following misguided leaders.

By understanding the context and meaning of this phrase, we can apply its wisdom to our own lives and grow in our walk with Christ.

As we strive to follow Jesus and become like Him, let us be intentional in choosing wise, discerning teachers and nurturing our own spiritual growth. In doing so, we can avoid the pitfalls of the blind leading the blind and embrace the abundant life that God has prepared for us.

May we all find strength in Christ and seek His guidance in all aspects of our lives, as we work together to build His kingdom on earth. Amen.

Pastor Duke Taber
Pastor Duke Taber

Pastor Duke Taber

All articles have been written or reviewed by Pastor Duke Taber.
Pastor Duke Taber is an alumnus of Life Pacific University and Multnomah Biblical Seminary.
He has been in pastoral ministry since 1988.
Today he is the owner and managing editor of 3 successful Christian websites that support missionaries around the world.
He is currently starting a brand new church in Mesquite NV called Mesquite Worship Center, a Non-Denominational Spirit Filled Christian church in Mesquite Nevada.