Spiritual Blindness
A. Barnes, D. D. Matthew 20:29-34 And as they departed from Jericho, a great multitude followed him.… I. MEN ARE BLINDED BY REASON OF SIN. They do not see the truths of religion. II. IT IS PROPER IN THIS STATE OF BLINDNESS TO CALL UPON JESUS TO OPEN OUR EYES. If we ever see, it will be by the grace of God. God is the fountain of light, and those in darkness should seek Him. III. PRESENT OPPORTUNITIES SHOULD BE IMPROVED. This was the first time that Jesus had been in Jericho, and it was the last time He would be there. He was passing through it on His way to Jerusalem. So He passes among us by His ordinances. While He is near we should seek Him. IV. WHEN PEOPLE REBUKE US, AND LAUGH AT US, IT SHOULD NOT DETER US FROM CALLING ON THE SAVIOUR. V. THE PERSEVERING OF CRY OF THOSE WHO SEEK THE SAVIOUR ARIGHT WILL NOT BE IN VAIN. VI. SINNERS MUST "RISE" AND COME TO JESUS. Cast away everything that hinders their confine. VII. FAITH IS THE ONLY CHANNEL THROUGH WHICH WE SHALL RECEIVE MERCY. VIII. THEY WHO ARE RESTORED TO SIGHT SHOULD FOLLOW JESUS. Wherever He leads — always — none else. He cannot lead astray. He can enlighten our goings through all our pilgrimage. (A. Barnes, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: And as they departed from Jericho, a great multitude followed him. WEB: As they went out from Jericho, a great multitude followed him.