Jan 31, 2021
Scripture Reading: John 5:1-18
The gospel of John is filled with miracles which Jesus did. John calls them 'signs' and his design in including them in his account of Jesus' life is to point readers to the divinity of Christ. John is saying, in effect, "Behold, what power and majesty Jesus displays. Surely He is the Son of God!"
In the present passage Jesus seeks out a man who had been an invalid for 38 years. According to His might and His mercy Jesus commands, "Get up, take up your bed and walk" (Jn 5:8). This man had not exhibited faith. In fact, in being questioned after his healing, the man did not know who it was who had healed him (Jn 5:13).
The grand point of Jesus' healing ministry is seen in this passage. Jesus drew people to Himself, ultimately, because of the healing of the soul that He offered. Following the healing of this man "Jesus found him in the temple and said to him, 'See, you are well! Sin no more, that nothing worse may happen to you'" (Jn 5:14).
Just as physical disease is a picture of the heinous corruption of sin, so when Jesus healed people it was a picture of the need for a cleansing of the soul. Jesus asked the man, "Do you want to be healed?" Regarding physical healing, no one would say 'no' to that question. But the question implied in Jesus' command, "Sin no more" is this … "Do you want to be made holy?"
This is the ultimate question for every person. The sinful heart wants God's help, but not His righteousness … physical healing, but not spiritual healing. May God continue to give us such a longing for Him and not simply for His power.