What does Matthew 9:27-31 mean?

27 And when Jesus departed thence, two blind men followed him, crying, and saying, Thou Son of David, have mercy on us. 28 And when he was come into the house, the blind men came to him: and Jesus saith unto them, Believe ye that I am able to do this? They said unto him, Yea, Lord. 29 Then touched he their eyes, saying, According to your faith be it unto you. 30 And their eyes were opened; and Jesus straitly charged them, saying, See that no man know it. 31 But they, when they were departed, spread abroad his fame in all that country. (Matthew 9:27-31 KJV)

Jesus Heals Two Blind Men

Jesus gave sight to two blind men. Christ is the source of both light and life. Just as he raised the dead, showing himself to be the giver of life, he also restored sight, demonstrating his divine power. The synagogue ruler and others who came to Christ for healing believed he was a man to whom Almighty God had given divine power. However, these blind men believed him to be the Messiah.

Two blind men followed Jesus, crying out, “Son of David, have mercy on us.” The title “Son of David” reflected their belief that he was the promised Messiah. Though they could not see him, they believed in him based on what they had heard. Those who lack physical sight may still have spiritual understanding.

Their plea was simple: “Have mercy on us.” They did not demand healing but trusted in his mercy. They prayed together, showing that those who share the same affliction should also unite in prayer.

They persistently followed Jesus, even when he did not immediately respond. This tested their faith and made their healing more meaningful. Jesus did not heal them publicly but waited until they came to him in the house. His doors are always open to those who seek him in faith.

Jesus asked them, “Do you believe that I am able to do this?” (Matthew 9:28). Faith is the key to receiving his blessings. They had already acknowledged him as the Messiah and believed in his mercy, but he wanted them to affirm their faith in his power. They responded immediately, “Yes, Lord.”

Jesus then touched their eyes and said, “According to your faith, let it be done to you” (Matthew 9:29). He acknowledged their sincere faith and rewarded it. Those who come to him in faith will receive according to their belief.

After healing them, Jesus instructed them to keep it private. He did this to teach humility, to avoid unnecessary opposition, and to prevent misunderstandings about his mission. However, they spread the news widely. Though their intentions were good, obedience to Christ’s instructions is more important than zeal.