When Jesus healed a blind man (John 9:1-7), the disciples would not have imagined how much the religious leaders wanted to ridicule the miracle, the man and Jesus.  This was to be an important lesson for their futures - to stand up for Jesus without fear … the courage of one intimidated person can strengthen the faithful resolve of many others (Philippians 1:14).

The newly-sighted man was interrogated for a second time (John 9:13-17).  The Pharisees had already come to their own wrong opinion, that Jesus was a sinner; and the man was asked to agree with them.  He was asked to confirm that Jesus was not from God, that He had evil motives and was a false prophet.  But the man refused to enter the theological debate; he simply testified that once he was blind, but now he could see.
 
As they persisted with their questions, the man became frustrated that they had not grasped the simple account of his healing.  Eventually, he ironically asks them if they were so interested because, secretly, they also wanted to be His disciples!  Of course, this was furthest from their minds.  They did not want to find a way of following Jesus; they were only interested in finding a way to get rid of Him (Luke 22:2).
 
But there was some truth in the questions about Jesus’ identity.  Very often, people who fiercely oppose the Gospel do so because they have most to lose, and yet suspect, deep down, that Jesus might be the Saviour they need. That is a very good reason for not backing away from those who are hostile to the Gospel; rather, it is critical that they are exposed to the Gospel.  Some will want to find out more about Jesus, but others will be further infuriated.  But it is very important somehow to ask the question, ‘Would you like to be a disciple of Jesus?’ (Acts 26:27-29).  Indeed, many who are far away from the Lord are secretly longing that someone will invite them to hear about Jesus.  So do not be discouraged or afraid when you are attacked by others for believing in Jesus.  That is the moment to tell them the truth and invite them to repent and follow the Saviour.