Mark 8:22–26: The Healing of the Blind Man at Bethsaida as a Parable of the Disciples’ Faith

This research paper by Jason Piland, submitted to Dr. Michael Kruger for NT508 – Gospels at Reformed Theological Seminary – Charlotte, examines the healing of the blind man at Bethsaida as a parable-in-action that mirrors the disciples’ spiritual progress. Piland argues that the two stages of healing—partial sight followed by full clarity—illustrate the disciples’ journey from misunderstanding to true recognition of Jesus as the Messiah.

Through careful textual and literary analysis, Piland situates the passage within Mark’s broader narrative structure, particularly between the disciples’ confusion over Jesus’ teaching and Peter’s confession of Christ. This “enacted parable,” he suggests, serves as a hinge in Mark’s Gospel, dramatizing how spiritual illumination comes only through divine revelation. Jesus’ deliberate method contrasts with His usual instantaneous healings, highlighting that the restoration of spiritual sight occurs gradually through faith and the work of the Spirit.

The paper concludes that Mark 8:22–26 functions on both literal and symbolic levels: it demonstrates Jesus’ compassionate power to heal physical blindness while embodying His mission to open the eyes of those who cannot yet see the truth of His suffering and resurrection. Piland’s analysis shows that the miracle calls readers to recognize their own need for deeper vision—a faith that sees Christ clearly and follows Him faithfully.

Course and semester: NT508 Gospels — Fall 2016