1.3 The Miracle at the Pool of Bethesda
Healing Beyond the Expected

Read John 5:1–9. Why did Jesus ask the paralyzed man if he wanted to be healed, when it was obvious that everyone at the pool wanted to be healed (John 5:6)?

In John 5:1–9, Jesus encounters a paralyzed man who is waiting at the Pool of Bethesda for healing. The people there were hoping for a miraculous stirring of the water, but the man had been sick for 38 years and was unable to get into the water in time. Jesus, knowing what was in the hearts of the people, asked the man a seemingly simple yet profound question: “Do you want to be healed?” (John 5:6).

This question shows that Jesus was not only concerned with physical healing but also with the man’s inner readiness for change. Often, a long-standing illness or life situation can become a habit, and the thought of it suddenly ending can evoke fear and uncertainty. The man was so focused on finding healing in the water that he did not realize that the true Healer was standing right before him.

Jesus did not ask the man to show faith but instead gave him a direct command: “Get up, pick up your mat, and walk!” (John 5:8). Without hesitation, the man obeyed. In that moment, his faith was revealed—not through understanding who Jesus was, but through trusting His word. It was this obedience to the word of Jesus that gave him the strength and healing he needed.

This miracle shows that God’s help often comes in ways we do not expect. While the man hoped for a solution through the water, it was Jesus who freed him from his illness. This reminds us that in our daily lives, we sometimes look for help in the wrong places, while the answer is right in front of us—in Jesus and His word.

This passage teaches us that true trust in God’s word and obedience to His guidance are necessary even when we do not immediately understand everything. Through faith in Jesus’ words, we experience the power of transformation—whether in physical or spiritual matters.

Later, Jesus met the man in the temple and said, “See, you are well! Sin no more, that nothing worse may happen to you” (John 5:14). What is the connection between illness and sin? Why must we understand that not every illness is a direct consequence of a specific sin in our lives?

The connection between illness and sin is complex and is addressed in various places in the Bible. In John 5:14, after Jesus healed the paralyzed man, He warned him: “Sin no more, that nothing worse may happen to you.” This might give the impression that there is a direct connection between his illness and his sins. However, it is important to view this relationship within the broader biblical context.

Connection Between Illness and Sin:

1. Sin and the Condition of the World: In general, illness, suffering, and death entered the world through the fall of man (Romans 5:12). When Adam and Eve sinned, the perfect conditions in which God had created humanity were disturbed. Since then, all of humanity has been exposed to the effects of sin and death, which include illness. In this sense, illness is a result of the fallen condition of the world, but not necessarily a direct punishment for individual sins.

2. Some Illnesses Can Be Consequences of Sin: In certain cases, illnesses or suffering can result from personal sins. Examples include the health consequences of poor decisions such as drug abuse, unhealthy lifestyles, or other behaviors that consciously go against God’s commandments. The Bible also contains instances where sin leads to specific consequences (e.g., Miriam’s leprosy in Numbers 12:1–15 as punishment for rebellion).

3. Not Every Illness Is the Result of Personal Sin: Jesus makes it very clear in other instances that not every illness is a direct result of personal sin. In John 9:1–3, the disciples ask if a man born blind was blind because of his own sin or his parents’ sin. Jesus replies, “Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but that the works of God might be displayed in him.” This statement shows that suffering and illness are not automatically attributed to personal guilt. Sometimes they serve to reveal God’s power and grace.

4. Sin Can Have Worse Consequences Than Illness: Jesus’ warning to the healed man to “sin no more” indicates that the spiritual consequences of sin can be more severe than physical illness. An illness may affect one’s earthly life, but sin that is not repented of and forgiven can endanger eternal life in God’s presence. Jesus wants to prevent the man from falling into a spiritual crisis that is worse than any physical ailment.

Conclusion:

While illness in a fallen world is generally a consequence of sin, this does not mean that every illness is directly related to a specific sin. The Bible encourages us to live our lives and take care of our health in accordance with God’s will, but it also teaches us that suffering and illness can sometimes affect us without being linked to personal guilt. Ultimately, Jesus’ message is an invitation to repentance and turning away from sin, in order to find not only physical healing but above all spiritual healing and life.

The encounter between Jesus and the paralyzed man at the Pool of Bethesda (John 5:1-9) offers many profound insights that are relevant both for faith and for our daily lives. Here are some thoughts on the connection between faith and our daily lives in the context of this story:

The Significance of Jesus’ Question

The question Jesus asks, “Do you want to be healed?” (John 5:6) is multifaceted. It shows that Jesus is not only interested in physical healing but also in the man’s inner readiness for change. Often, people in difficult life situations develop a habit that prevents them from seeking a real solution. The faith that Jesus expects from the man goes beyond mere hope for healing; it is an act of trust and obedience to God’s word.

Expectations of God

The paralyzed man waited for a miraculous stirring of the waters, but his healing came through Jesus’ direct intervention. This teaches us that sometimes we seek help in the wrong places, and the answers we need may be right in front of us, often in the form of God’s word or the support of others. It reminds us to be open to the ways God wants to intervene in our lives, even if they do not meet our expectations.

Connection Between Illness and Sin

Verse 14, in which Jesus tells the healed man, “Sin no more, that nothing worse may happen to you,” opens up another aspect of the relationship between illness and sin. It is important to understand that not every illness is a direct punishment for personal sins.

1. The Fallen Condition of the World: Illness and suffering are general consequences of the fall of man (Romans 5:12). They are part of the reality in a fallen world where creation is no longer perfect.

2. Consequences of Sin: In some cases, illnesses can be direct consequences of individual sins, such as unhealthy lifestyles or deliberate disregard for God’s commandments.

3. Suffering and God’s Purpose: Jesus makes it clear that suffering is not always attributable to personal guilt. Sometimes suffering serves to reveal God’s power and grace (John 9:1-3).

4. Spiritual Health: Jesus’ warning to “sin no more” indicates that the spiritual consequences of sin can be more severe than physical illnesses. True healing includes not only physical well-being but also spiritual health and a relationship with God.

Application in Daily Life

The teachings from this story encourage us to consider some basic principles in our daily lives:

• Openness to Change: We should be ready to question our life circumstances and the issues that concern us. Are we willing to accept the changes God wants to bring into our lives?

• Trust in God’s Word: Even when we do not immediately understand the answers, we can trust God’s promises and act in obedience, which often leads to unexpected healings or solutions.

• Dealing with Illness and Suffering: Instead of viewing illness and suffering as punishment, we should see them as opportunities to experience God’s presence and grace in our lives.

• Spirituality and Health: It is important to nurture both physical and spiritual health. Faith should not only express itself in hope for healing but also in a lifestyle that reflects God’s principles.

Overall, the story of the Pool of Bethesda offers deep insights into the nature of faith and healing, as well as an invitation to reflect on our lives in light of God’s word and His purposes for us.

Trust in God’s healing—for both body and soul.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-1-signs-that-point-the-way-1-3-the-miracle-at-the-pool-of-bethesda-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/

October 1, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Luke Chapter 19

¹ And Jesus entered and passed through Jericho.

² And, behold, there was a man named Zacchaeus, which was the chief among the publicans, and he was rich.

³ And he sought to see Jesus who he was; and could not for the press, because he was little of stature.

⁴ And he ran before, and climbed up into a sycomore tree to see him: for he was to pass that way.

⁵ And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up, and saw him, and said unto him, Zacchaeus, make haste, and come down; for to day I must abide at thy house.

⁶ And he made haste, and came down, and received him joyfully.

⁷ And when they saw it, they all murmured, saying, That he was gone to be guest with a man that is a sinner.

⁸ And Zacchaeus stood, and said unto the Lord: Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have taken any thing from any man by false accusation, I restore him fourfold.

⁹ And Jesus said unto him, This day is salvation come to this house, forsomuch as he also is a son of Abraham.

¹⁰ For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.

¹¹ And as they heard these things, he added and spake a parable, because he was nigh to Jerusalem, and because they thought that the kingdom of God should immediately appear.

¹² He said therefore, A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return.

¹³ And he called his ten servants, and delivered them ten pounds, and said unto them, Occupy till I come.

¹⁴ But his citizens hated him, and sent a message after him, saying, We will not have this man to reign over us.

¹⁵ And it came to pass, that when he was returned, having received the kingdom, then he commanded these servants to be called unto him, to whom he had given the money, that he might know how much every man had gained by trading.

¹⁶ Then came the first, saying, Lord, thy pound hath gained ten pounds.

¹⁷ And he said unto him, Well, thou good servant: because thou hast been faithful in a very little, have thou authority over ten cities.

¹⁸ And the second came, saying, Lord, thy pound hath gained five pounds.

¹⁹ And he said likewise to him, Be thou also over five cities.

²⁰ And another came, saying, Lord, behold, here is thy pound, which I have kept laid up in a napkin:

²¹ For I feared thee, because thou art an austere man: thou takest up that thou layedst not down, and reapest that thou didst not sow.

²² And he saith unto him, Out of thine own mouth will I judge thee, thou wicked servant. Thou knewest that I was an austere man, taking up that I laid not down, and reaping that I did not sow:

²³ Wherefore then gavest not thou my money into the bank, that at my coming I might have required mine own with usury?

²⁴ And he said unto them that stood by, Take from him the pound, and give it to him that hath ten pounds.

²⁵ (And they said unto him, Lord, he hath ten pounds.)

²⁶ For I say unto you, That unto every one which hath shall be given; and from him that hath not, even that he hath shall be taken away from him.

²⁷ But those mine enemies, which would not that I should reign over them, bring hither, and slay them before me.

²⁸ And when he had thus spoken, he went before, ascending up to Jerusalem.

²⁹ And it came to pass, when he was come nigh to Bethphage and Bethany, at the mount called the mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples,

³⁰ Saying, Go ye into the village over against you; in the which at your entering ye shall find a colt tied, whereon yet never man sat: loose him, and bring him hither.

³¹ And if any man ask you, Why do ye loose him? thus shall ye say unto him, Because the Lord hath need of him.

³² And they that were sent went their way, and found even as he had said unto them.

³³ And as they were loosing the colt, the owners thereof said unto them, Why loose ye the colt?

³⁴ And they said, The Lord hath need of him.

³⁵ And they brought him to Jesus: and they cast their garments upon the colt, and they set Jesus thereon.

³⁶ And as he went, they spread their clothes in the way.

³⁷ And when he was come nigh, even now at the descent of the mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works that they had seen;

³⁸ Saying, Blessed be the King that cometh in the name of the Lord: peace in heaven, and glory in the highest.

³⁹ And some of the Pharisees from among the multitude said unto him, Master, rebuke thy disciples.

⁴⁰ And he answered and said unto them, I tell you that, if these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out.

⁴¹ And when he was come near, he beheld the city, and wept over it,

⁴² Saying, If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes.

⁴³ For the days shall come upon thee, that thine enemies shall cast a trench about thee, and compass thee round, and keep thee in on every side,

⁴⁴ And shall lay thee even with the ground, and thy children within thee; and they shall not leave in thee one stone upon another; because thou knewest not the time of thy visitation.

⁴⁵ And he went into the temple, and began to cast out them that sold therein, and them that bought;

⁴⁶ Saying unto them, It is written, My house is the house of prayer: but ye have made it a den of thieves.

⁴⁷ And he taught daily in the temple. But the chief priests and the scribes and the chief of the people sought to destroy him,

⁴⁸ And could not find what they might do: for all the people were very attentive to hear him.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction:

Luke chapter 19 depicts pivotal events from the life of Jesus on His journey to Jerusalem. It begins with Jesus’ encounter with Zacchaeus, the wealthy tax collector, who repents after Jesus visits his house. This is followed by the parable of the ten minas, which addresses responsibility and the anticipation of Christ’s return. Finally, Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem is described, accompanied by His emotional weeping over the city and the cleansing of the temple. This chapter encapsulates key aspects of repentance, justice, and the coming Kingdom of God.

Commentary:

The story of Zacchaeus illustrates Jesus’ willingness to reach out to the lost. Zacchaeus, a despised tax collector, seeks Jesus by climbing a tree and is rewarded by Jesus for his openness and repentance. This encounter demonstrates the power of repentance and Jesus’ ability to transform hearts. Zacchaeus’ decision to share his wealth and rectify injustices reflects the true meaning of repentance and faith.

The parable of the ten minas highlights the responsibility each believer has to wisely use the gifts God has entrusted to them. While some servants multiply their minas, the third servant fails out of fear and inaction. This parable emphasizes that God expects us to be productive with what He has given us and that inaction will be punished. The reward is life in the Kingdom of God, but those who reject it will be judged.

Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem is celebrated by the crowd as a triumphant arrival of a king. The disciples loudly praise Jesus, while the Pharisees disapprove. Jesus warns them that worship cannot be suppressed—if the people remain silent, the stones will cry out. This underscores the inevitability of the Kingdom of God’s arrival.

When Jesus weeps over Jerusalem, His deep sorrow over the impending destruction of the city and the people’s lack of understanding becomes evident. He recognizes that Jerusalem has missed the offer of peace and salvation. The cleansing of the temple symbolizes Jesus’ authority and His desire to purify faith from corrupt influences.

Summary:

Luke 19 is a powerful portrayal of repentance, responsibility, and the kingship of Jesus. Zacchaeus’ conversion demonstrates the transformative power of faith, while the parable of the minas teaches the importance of wisely using God’s gifts. Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem and His tears over the city highlight the urgency of recognizing the coming Kingdom of God. Through the cleansing of the temple, Jesus asserts His divine authority over religious life. Overall, this chapter emphasizes themes of redemption, judgment, and the inevitable arrival of the Kingdom of God.

 

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 67—Woes on the Pharisees
This chapter is based on Matthew 23; Mark 12:41-44; Luke 20:45-47; Luke 21:1-4.
Read online here

 

Commentary

Introduction:

Chapter 67 describes Jesus’ final day, during which He teaches in the temple and delivers a powerful condemnation of the hypocrisy and sanctimony of the religious leaders. Jesus speaks bold words, denouncing the Pharisees and scribes for their false, selfish way of life in faith while simultaneously praising humility and true piety. The crowd observing Him is moved by His words, while the religious leaders are exposed and humiliated.

Commentary:

Jesus’ sharp words against the Pharisees and scribes emphasize their hypocrisy, abuse of power, and selfish motives. Although they appear outwardly pious and emphasize religious duties, they do not adhere to these rules themselves. Jesus condemns their love for titles, honors, and external recognition, highlighting true piety, which is demonstrated through humility, mercy, and service.

The episode of the poor widow who throws her last coins into the temple underscores the importance of selfless sacrifice. While the rich give out of their abundance, the widow gives all she has. This shows that God does not evaluate the material value of a sacrifice but the heart and intention behind it.

At the end, Jesus warns of the spiritual decline of the religious leadership, which will lead to the destruction of Jerusalem. His lament over Jerusalem reflects God’s deep sorrow over the obstinacy of His people, who reject His prophets and ultimately His Messiah.

Summary:

Chapter 67 reveals Jesus’ sharp criticism of the religious leaders of His time. He condemns their hypocrisy and abuse of power, making it clear that true greatness lies in serving and humility. The story of the poor widow demonstrates that God values the heart and willingness to sacrifice of His followers, while Jesus prophesies the impending judgment on Jerusalem. This chapter is a poignant call to inner repentance, genuine piety, and the fulfillment of God’s commandments with love and mercy.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/1-10-2024-luke-chapter-19-believe-his-prophets/