John·Chapter 5

Chapter Context

In this chapter, we see a powerful story unfold. It starts with a man who has been unable to walk for 38 long years, waiting for a chance to be healed. Jesus approaches him, asks if he wants to get well, and then commands him to get up and walk. The man responds, and in a moment, his life changes forever! But then, right after this miraculous healing, Jesus disappears into the crowd, leaving the man to navigate his newfound freedom without knowing who to thank or even who healed him. This creates a tension-filled moment that highlights not just the miracle, but also the mystery of who Jesus is and what He represents.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• now - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• healed - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• not - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• know - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• who - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• was - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• for - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• jesus - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• withdrawn - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• was - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

When have you experienced a moment of change or healing in your life where you didn’t fully understand what was happening? How did that affect you?

Related Verses

• Isaiah 35:6 - Written 700 years before this, it describes a time when the lame will leap like a deer, showing that God has always had a plan for healing.
• Matthew 9:22 - Here, a woman is healed just by touching Jesus' cloak, showing that faith can bring unexpected healing, just like the man in this verse.
• John 9:25 - Another man, born blind, says he doesn't know who healed him, but he knows he can see now. It echoes the theme of experiencing change without full understanding.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in John 5:13. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Main Themes

Divine Healing, Sabbath Controversy, Authority of Jesus, Faith and Belief, Relationship with God, Judgment and Sin, Revelation of Identity

Key Verses

John 5:6, John 5:9, John 5:14, John 5:17, John 5:19

Historical Context

John Chapter 5 is situated in the context of Jesus' ministry during the Second Temple period, where Jewish law and tradition heavily influenced religious life. The chapter uniquely highlights Jesus' authority over both physical ailments and religious laws, revealing a tension between His mission and the established norms of Jewish leaders. Written in the latter part of the first century, John's Gospel serves to affirm the divinity of Christ, providing theological insights that distinguish it from the synoptic gospels. This chapter plays a crucial role in illustrating the conflict that arises when Jesus' actions challenge the understanding of the Sabbath, a key aspect of Jewish law.