Expository Thoughts On Luke - Luke 18:35-43
J.C. Ryle illustrates through the story of the blind beggar that diligent faith and earnest seeking of Christ through the means of grace lead to spiritual sight and salvation.
In this expository sermon on Luke 18:35-43, J.C. Ryle explores the story of the blind beggar to reveal profound spiritual lessons about faith, diligence, and salvation. Ryle emphasizes the necessity of actively seeking Christ through the means of grace and the power of persistent faith. This message encourages believers to be attentive and earnest in their spiritual walk, trusting in Christ’s ability to restore both physical and spiritual sight.
Text
THE BLIND BEGGAR
The miracle described in these verses is rich in instruction. It was one of the great works which witnessed that Christ was sent of the Father. (John 5:36.) But this is not all. It contains also some lively patterns of spiritual things which deserve attentive study.
We see, for one thing, in this passage, the importance of diligence in the use of means. We are told of "a certain blind man who sat by the wayside begging." He sought the place where his pitiful condition was most likely to attract notice. He did not sit lazily at home, and wait for relief to come to him. He placed himself by the road-side, in order that travelers might see him and give him help. The story before us shows the wisdom of his conduct. Sitting by the wayside, he heard that "Jesus was passing by." Hearing of Jesus he cried for mercy, and was restored to sight. Let us mark this well! If the blind man had not sat by the wayside that day, he might have remained blind to the hour of his death.
He that desires salvation should remember the example of this blind man. He must attend diligently on every means of grace. He must be found regularly in those places where the Lord Jesus is specially present. He must sit by the wayside, wherever the word is read and the Gospel preached, and God\
Sermon Outline
-
I. The Setting and Condition of the Blind Beggar
- A blind man sits by the wayside begging
- He positions himself where he can be seen
- His condition symbolizes spiritual blindness
-
II. The Importance of Diligence in Seeking Christ
- The blind man hears Jesus is passing by
- He cries out for mercy with earnest faith
- Diligence in attending means of grace is vital
-
III. The Miracle and Its Spiritual Significance
- Jesus heals the blind man, restoring his sight
- The miracle confirms Christ’s divine mission
- Spiritual sight comes through faith and grace
-
IV. Application for Believers Today
- Be diligent in seeking Christ through the Word
- Attend regularly where the Gospel is preached
- Faith must be active and persistent
Key Quotes
“The miracle described in these verses is rich in instruction.” — J.C. Ryle
“He must attend diligently on every means of grace.” — J.C. Ryle
“If the blind man had not sat by the wayside that day, he might have remained blind to the hour of his death.” — J.C. Ryle
Application Points
- Be intentional and diligent in attending church and hearing the Word of God.
- Cry out to Jesus persistently for mercy and spiritual healing.
- Trust that Christ’s power can restore your spiritual sight and bring salvation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the blind beggar represent in this sermon?
The blind beggar symbolizes a sinner spiritually blind and in need of Christ’s mercy and healing.
Why is diligence emphasized in seeking salvation?
Because salvation requires actively seeking Christ through the means of grace rather than passively waiting.
How does the miracle confirm Christ’s mission?
The healing demonstrates Jesus’ divine authority and that He was sent by the Father to save.
What practical steps does Ryle suggest for believers?
He urges believers to attend regularly where the Gospel is preached and to cry out to Jesus with persistent faith.
Is faith alone enough according to this sermon?
Faith must be accompanied by diligence and the use of God’s appointed means to receive salvation.