What does John 5:9 mean?

Explanation

John 5:9 describes the miraculous healing of a man who had been infirm for 38 years at the pool of Bethesda in Jerusalem.

When Jesus saw him lying there and learned of his long-term condition, He asked the man if he wanted to get well.

After a brief exchange, Jesus told him to "Rise, take up thy bed, and walk." The verse confirms that the man was immediately made whole, obeyed Jesus' command, and began to walk.

This healing is significant, not only as a demonstration of Jesus' divine power but also because it occurred on the Sabbath, which sets the stage for subsequent discussions about the legality of healing on a day of rest according to Jewish law.

Historical Context

During the time of Jesus, the pool of Bethesda was a location in Jerusalem near the Sheep Gate, thought to have healing properties.

In John 5:4 (in some manuscripts), it is mentioned that people believed an angel would occasionally stir the water, and the first person to step in afterward would be healed.

The Sabbath, which is the last day of the Jewish week, was and still is a day dedicated to rest and worship, according to the commandments given in the books of Exodus (20:8–11) and Deuteronomy (5:12–15).

Performing work on the Sabbath was strictly prohibited by Jewish law.

The healing at the pool of Bethesda is considered one of Jesus' miracles, which often provoked controversy among the Jewish leaders of the time, particularly when performed on the Sabbath.

Theological Insights

Christians view this verse as an indication of Jesus' authority over illness and the Sabbath.

Theologically, it shows that Jesus ascribed to Himself the authority to heal and work on the Sabbath, challenging traditional interpretations of the law.

For some, this addresses the tension between legalism and the spirit of the law, the difference between strictly observing religious rules and understanding their deeper purpose.

There are several perspectives:

• Traditional Jewish thought at the time would likely have seen Jesus' action as a breach of Sabbath law.
• Christian theologians often view this event as a testament to Jesus' divinity and His lordship over the Sabbath.
• In some theological circles, this miracle is seen as a symbol of spiritual healing and restoration from sin, as much as physical healing.

Practical Applications

This verse can inspire believers to consider the transformative power of faith and the immediacy of God's work in one’s life when one responds to Jesus' words. It encourages people to take action when called upon by God, even if it means challenging societal norms or personal comfort zones.

Additionally, it suggests that the practice of one's faith should not be limited to following rules but should include acts of compassion and mercy that can extend even into traditionally sacred times and spaces like the Sabbath.

Cross-References

• Matthew 12:9-13: Another example of Jesus healing on the Sabbath and rebuking the Pharisees for focusing too strictly on the law.
• Mark 2:27: Where Jesus says, "The sabbath was made for man, and not man for the sabbath."
• Luke 13:10-17: Jesus heals a woman on the Sabbath and confronts the hypocritical mindset of the religious leaders.
• John 9:14-16: Jesus heals a man born blind on the Sabbath, sparking debate among the Pharisees about His legitimacy.

Language Study

In this verse, the Greek word used for "made whole" is "ὑγιής" (hygiēs), which means sound, whole, or healthy.

"Took up" translates from "ἦρεν" (ēren), meaning to lift or raise up.

"Walked" is from "περιπατεῖν" (peripatein), which means to walk around or to conduct one's life. This analysis helps us understand the complete and instantaneous nature of the healing and the action the man took in response to Jesus' command.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparing this narrative to other ancient myths and religions, one could consider the common theme of miraculous healings in various traditions. For example, in the Greek mythological tradition, the god Asclepius was associated with healing powers.

However, one of the distinctions of Jesus’ healings was that they were performed out of compassion and as signs of a spiritual kingdom, rather than demonstrations of power or to elicit worship unto Himself.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern science operates within a worldview based on measurable, repeatable phenomena, and so it typically does not substantiate accounts of miraculous healings like those described in the Bible.

The immediate and complete healing that the man experienced defies naturalistic explanations and current medical understanding.

From a scientific standpoint, such an event could be regarded as psychosomatic or misdiagnosed, although this interpretation would not align with the biblical narrative and its theological significance.

Commentaries

Commentators offer various insights on this verse:

• Old and New Testament scholar William Barclay suggests that this miracle illustrates Jesus' power to give people not just new health but a new life and new beginning.
• John Calvin notes the significance of the Sabbath healing as a demonstration of the purpose of the Sabbath, mercy and human need take precedence over ritualistic law observance.
• Matthew Henry points to the obedience of the healed man as an appropriate response to Jesus’ miraculous intervention, and as a testimony that strengthened the man's faith.
• Some contemporary biblical scholars stress the social implications of the passage, as Jesus’ actions challenged the authorities of the day and advocated for a more inclusive and compassionate application of religious laws.