Beyond the blur: What Jesus’ only two-stage miracle reveals about our own spiritual cataracts.
Our text in this study is: Mark 8:22-26
Series: Who Do You Say That He Is?
Gene Pensiero Jr
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In this verse-by-verse study of Mark 8:22-26, we examine one of the most unique miracles in the New Testament: the two-stage healing of the blind man at Bethsaida. As we continue our journey through the Gospel of Mark from a Calvary Chapel perspective, we see Jesus lead a man out of “the house of fish” to perform a miracle that serves as a live-action parable for every believer.
Why did Jesus choose to heal this man in stages? Was the Great Physician lacking power, or was there a specific spiritual lesson intended for the disciples—and for us? This passage reveals that while we are called out of darkness into His marvelous light, our spiritual vision often requires continual adjustment. Just as physical cataracts cloud the lens and scatter light, our spiritual sight can become blurry, causing us to see “people like trees walking.”
In this teaching, we explore:
The Tender Care of Christ: Watch how Jesus takes the blind man by the hand, leading him personally away from the crowds. This intimate journey reflects how the Lord desires to lead you through your own seasons of darkness.
Spiritual Cataracts: We discuss how even dedicated followers of Jesus, like Peter and the apostles, can suffer from shortsightedness and blurred vision regarding the work of the Messiah.
The Process of Illumination: We examine why Christ’s revelation is rarely a “one-and-done” event. Through the Word of God and the work of the Holy Spirit, Jesus continually clears away the impediments of our sin nature so we can see His glory clearly.
Obedience in the Unknown: Discover the significance of Jesus sending the healed man home with specific instructions, reminding us that our primary calling often begins in our own households.
Whether you are seeking Jesus for the first time or you are a longtime student of the Bible looking to deepen your walk, this study encourages us to present ourselves to the Physician who gives sight to the blind. Let us pray with the Psalmist, “Open my eyes so that I may contemplate wondrous things from Your instruction.”
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