what a blind man saw

And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out and say, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” And many rebuked him, telling him to be silent. But he cried out all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!”

Mark 10:47-48

Bartimaeus believed many things about Jesus based only on what he had heard by reputation. He believed that Jesus was the Messiah sent by God. This is evidenced by him addressing Jesus as the “Son of David”. His faith was founded first in this conviction. 

Secondly, he believed Jesus could heal his blindness. That is the request that he makes when brought to Jesus. Bartimaeus believed God’s healing power was a part of Jesus’ ministry as Messiah, and he made his crying requests based on this faith.

Thirdly, Bartimaeus believed Jesus gave mercy as only God can do. The essence of his cry to Jesus was to beg for mercy. As a blind beggar, Bartimaeus only sustained himself by the sympathetic mercies of those around him. But asking Jesus for mercy was another matter. Now Bartimaeus was begging for the restoring, healing mercy of God Almighty to transform his life. His faith was great.

Finally, Bartimaeus believed that Jesus was worthy to be followed. His first act of faith after Jesus gave him sight was to follow Jesus. He believed, he was restored, and he followed Jesus instantly. What a beautiful picture of faith, salvation, and discipleship! All of this happened because what Bartimaeus believed is still true today. Jesus is a merciful Messiah with the power to save, restore, and provide direction as we follow Him and obey His teaching.