No Good Path for a Blind Man

Luke 6:39-42

The parable that concludes this discourse has two illustrations both dealing with vision.

·     The blind leading the blind - don’t follow someone who is blind himself

·     The speck or plank in the eye – don’t try to help someone when you have significant problems of your own

 

Sandwiched between these two parables is Jesus’ statement about the purpose of discipleship which it gives greater meaning to His parables.  The goal of discipleship is to become like the teacher, the Master.  In order to be like the teacher the disciple has two responsibilities that are shown in the parables.

1.   The exclusivity of Jesus the Teacher – don’t follow anyone who is blind.  This implies that the disciple himself is also blind.  Jesus is the light by which we walk (John 8:12, 9:5).  Jesus also gives sight to His disciples, for He alone is the one who gives sight to blind eyes.  As the disciple follows the Light, he then becomes a lesser light (Matthew 5:15).

2.   The focus of discipleship – take care of yourself first.  Being a disciple of Jesus Christ requires that one first applies what he is learning to himself!  Ultimately, the disciple who is following Jesus should turn to help others, but he must first insure that he has accomplished the teaching of the Master.  Perhaps one could say, “a little learning is a dangerous thing,” especially if that lesson has not been personally applied first.

I find this passage intensely personal.  I have been so anxious to put these “thoughts” up on the I’net that I am in danger of failing to apply what I am learning to myself.  I am extremely well practiced in seeing the application of Scripture for others.  Father, I must apply Thy word firs to my own life.

Coram deo