Luke 6:39
And he spake a parable unto them, Can the blind lead the blind? shall they not both fall into the ditch?
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
Context Jesus teaching about judging others judging self first (v. 41-42). Blind leaders Pharisees hypocrites. See speck in others eye miss log in own. Must have spiritual sight to lead others. Teaching office requires maturity knowledge humility. Paul warns against novices in leadership (1 Tim 3:6). Early church recognized qualified elders overseers. Medieval church sometimes elevated based on politics not qualification. Reformation recovered biblical eldership qualified shepherds. Modern church celebrity pastors sometimes unqualified. Need return to biblical qualifications for leadership.
Questions for Reflection
- What does blind leading blind teach about necessity of qualified mature spiritual leadership?
- How can church ensure leaders are spiritually mature not merely popular or charismatic?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Can blind lead blind shall they not both fall into ditch. Rhetorical question expects no. Blind tuphlos spiritually blind. Lead hodēgein guide. Both amphoteroi leader follower. Fall pesountai stumble. Ditch bothynon pit. Blind leading blind results in disaster. Spiritually blind teachers lead followers to ruin. Pharisees were blind guides (Matt 15:14). Need teachers who see spiritual truth. Reformed theology emphasizes qualified eldership. Not all can teach. Must be spiritually mature grounded in truth.