The phrase “the blind leading the blind” paints a picture of misguided leadership—when those without understanding try to guide others who are equally lost. This saying is not only common in our culture but comes straight from the words of Jesus.
What Jesus Said
Jesus first used this expression in Matthew 15:14, speaking about the Pharisees—religious leaders who appeared righteous but were spiritually blind.
“Let them alone; they are blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind leads the blind, both will fall into a ditch.”
— Matthew 15:14 (NKJV)
Jesus was warning His followers not to be influenced by those who did not truly understand God’s Word. The Pharisees focused on outward traditions rather than inward faith. They were leading others astray because they themselves could not see the truth.
Spiritual Blindness Explained
In the Bible, blindness often symbolizes a lack of spiritual insight. People can see physically but still be blind to the truth of God.
“But if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, whose minds the god of this age has blinded.”
— 2 Corinthians 4:3–4 (NKJV)
Satan blinds people to the truth, making them trust in false teachings or worldly wisdom instead of God’s light.
Why Following the Wrong Guide Is Dangerous
When someone follows a leader who does not walk in truth, both can end up lost. Jesus’ warning is timeless—it applies to every generation. We must be careful who we listen to, especially in matters of faith and morals.
| Type of Leader | Example | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Spiritually blind | A person teaching half-truths or traditions over Scripture | Both leader and followers stumble |
| Spiritually aware | A person guided by the Holy Spirit and the Word | Leads others to truth and life |
Seeing Through God’s Word
The cure for spiritual blindness is the light of God’s truth. The Bible opens our eyes to what is right and reveals when we’ve strayed from His path.
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”
— Psalm 119:105 (NKJV)
Just as light reveals what darkness hides, God’s Word exposes deception and leads us safely forward.
The Role of the Holy Spirit
Jesus promised the Holy Spirit would guide believers into all truth. This means we don’t have to depend on blind guides—we have divine direction through God Himself.
“When He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth.”
— John 16:13 (NKJV)
The Holy Spirit helps us discern truth from lies and keeps us on the right path even when others around us are lost.
Lessons for Today
We live in a time when many voices claim to speak truth—teachers, influencers, even religious leaders. The warning of “the blind leading the blind” is more relevant than ever.
- Read and meditate on Scripture daily
- Pray for wisdom and discernment
- Test all teaching against the Bible
- Follow leaders who show humility and integrity
- Seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit
A Contrast: Blindness and Sight in Scripture
Jesus often healed the physically blind to show what He could do spiritually. His miracles were not only about physical sight but about restoring spiritual vision.
| Example | Verse | Spiritual Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Healing the man born blind | John 9:1–7 | Jesus reveals Himself as the “Light of the world.” |
| Saul regains sight after conversion | Acts 9:17–18 | Spiritual blindness turned into faith and mission. |
| Bartimaeus healed | Mark 10:46–52 | Faith brings both physical and spiritual sight. |
Each story reminds us that Jesus gives true vision to those who seek Him.
Final Thought
Being blind is not the issue—refusing to be healed is. Jesus offers sight to everyone who turns to Him. We must guard our hearts, choose our leaders wisely, and keep our eyes fixed on Christ.
“Once I was blind, but now I see.”
— John 9:25 (NKJV)
