John 5:6
Verse
Context
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Wilt thou be made whole? - Christ, by asking this question, designed to excite in this person faith, hope, and a greater desire of being healed. He wished him to reflect on his miserable state, that he might be the better prepared to receive a cure, and to value it when it came. Addresses of this kind are always proper from the preachers of the Gospel, that the hearts, as well of hardened as of desponding sinners, may be stirred up to desire and expect salvation. Do you wish to be healed? Do you know that you are under the power of a most inveterate and dangerous disease? If so, there is a remedy - have immediate recourse to the physician. Questions of this kind are frequently asked in the secret of our souls, by the inspirations of God's Spirit. Happy those who pay attention to them, and give right answers.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
saw him lie, and knew, &c.--As He doubtless visited the spot just to perform this cure, so He knows where to find His patient, and the whole previous history of his case (Joh 2:25). Wilt thou be made whole?--Could anyone doubt that a sick man would like to be made whole, or that the patients came thither, and this man had returned again and again, just in hope of a cure? But our Lord asked the question. (1) To fasten attention upon Himself; (2) By making him detail his case to deepen in him the feeling of entire helplessness; (3) By so singular a question to beget in his desponding heart the hope of a cure. (Compare Mar 10:51).
John Gill Bible Commentary
When Jesus saw him lie,.... In such a helpless condition: and knew that he had been now a long time, in that case, or "in his disease", as the Ethiopic version supplies; even seven years before Christ was born; which is a proof of his omniscience: the words may be literally rendered, as they are in the Vulgate Latin and Syriac versions, "that he had had much time"; or as the Arabic version, "that he had had many years"; that is had lived many years, and was now an old man; he had his disorder eight and thirty years, and which seems from Joh 5:14 to have arisen from some sin of his, from a vicious course of living, perhaps intemperance; so that he might be a middle aged man, when this distemper first seized him, and therefore must be now stricken in years: he saith unto him, wilt thou be made whole? which question is put, not as if it was a doubt, whether he was desirous of it, or not; for to what purpose did he lie and wait there else? but partly to raise in the man an expectation of a cure, and attention in the people to it: and it may be his sense and meaning is, wilt thou be made whole on this day, which was the sabbath; or hast thou faith that thou shall be made whole in this way, or by me?
John 5:6
The Pool of Bethesda
5One man there had been an invalid for thirty-eight years.6When Jesus saw him lying there and realized that he had spent a long time in this condition, He asked him, “Do you want to get well?”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Dreamer
By B.H. Clendennen4.1K1:14:26JosephGEN 37:19MAT 7:7MAT 22:37JHN 5:6ACT 17:11EPH 1:15REV 2:4In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the increasing knowledge and advancements in the world, particularly in the field of science. However, he observes that religious dreamers are still held in contempt and are often overlooked because they are not focused on entertainment and pleasure. The preacher emphasizes the importance of finding joy and fulfillment in the presence of Christ, rather than being consumed by worldly desires. He also highlights the need for Christians to live out their faith and be a living testimony of the resurrected Christ, so that others may see and believe.
How the Spirit Leads Us - Part 3
By Zac Poonen1.2K08:57JHN 5:61TH 5:23HEB 8:7HEB 8:10This sermon emphasizes God's desire to sanctify us completely in spirit, soul, and body, without blame, preparing us for the coming of Jesus Christ. It highlights the internal transformation God wants to work in us, ensuring that every part of our being is blameless. The sermon also contrasts the old covenant, which required self-effort, with the new covenant, where God promises to sanctify us and bring about the necessary changes internally.
Episodes in Life of T/lord 02 the Impotent Man
By Robert Constable1.1K44:51ImpotentMAT 6:33JHN 5:1JHN 5:6JHN 5:8In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Jesus healing a man who had been paralyzed for 38 years. The preacher highlights four significant statements made by Jesus during this encounter. The first statement is a question, "Wouldst thou be made whole?" The preacher emphasizes that Jesus is asking the man if he truly desires to be healed. The second statement is Jesus commanding the man to "take up thy bed and walk," indicating that he should not expect others to carry him but to use the strength given to him to live a new life. The preacher also mentions an epilogue to the story, where Jesus encounters the man again on a Sabbath day and brings about a significant change. The sermon encourages listeners to respond to Jesus' words and obey his voice in order to overcome the things that have mastered them.
Our Great High Priest
By Robert Constable85834:27Jesus ChristEXO 25:40JHN 2:1JHN 5:6JHN 6:15JHN 9:1In this sermon, the preacher focuses on two stories from the Bible that demonstrate the compassion and power of Jesus. The first story is about Jesus walking on water and calming the fears of his disciples. This shows that Jesus is not only able to perform miracles, but also cares for his followers and wants to alleviate their fears. The second story is about a man who had been sick for 38 years and was waiting by a pool for healing. Jesus approaches him and asks if he wants to be made well, showing his deep compassion for the sick and his willingness to heal. The preacher emphasizes that it is never too late to seek healing and restoration from Jesus, no matter how long one has been in a state of spiritual stagnation.
The Appearing of Resurrection and the Giving of Power
By Newman Sze8201:22:11MAT 28:1MAT 28:19MRK 16:15LUK 24:44JHN 20:19JHN 21:25In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the 40 days that Jesus spent on earth after His resurrection. He explains that during this time, Jesus trained His disciples to shift their focus from external things to internal revelation, from the flesh to the Holy Spirit, and from the law to life. The speaker shares a personal anecdote about a turbulent airplane ride to illustrate the need for Christians to rise above fear and rely on the Holy Spirit. He concludes by urging the audience to prioritize their personal encounter with the Lord and the experience of being filled with the Holy Spirit.
2005 Missions Conference - Session 4
By Peter Sorenson74456:10NUM 13:30JOS 1:9PSA 40:3MAT 6:33JHN 5:6ROM 6:232CO 5:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that God can use anyone, regardless of their current circumstances or past mistakes. He uses the example of the man who was paralyzed for 38 years and was healed by Jesus. The speaker encourages listeners to have faith and take the first step towards obedience, just as the man on the mat did. The sermon also highlights the importance of stepping out in courage and trusting in God's provision. The speaker shares his own experience of God's faithfulness in providing for his family and emphasizes the need for discipleship and reaching out to others, particularly prisoners in Africa.
All That Jesus Taught Bible Study - Part 37
By Zac Poonen59624:26ISA 30:21MAT 9:22JHN 5:6ACT 3:61JN 2:6This sermon emphasizes the importance of being sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit in ministry, highlighting Jesus' actions in responding to needs based on the Spirit's prompting. It discusses the need to be willing to have our plans interrupted to help those in need, while also being discerning about which invitations or opportunities to accept, following the example of Jesus. The sermon underscores the principle of living by faith and total dependence on God, rather than relying solely on knowledge or doctrines.
Jesus Is Here
By G.W. North13920:37JesusGEN 2:7PSA 142:4MAT 6:33JHN 5:1JHN 5:6JHN 10:28EPH 1:7In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story in John chapter 5 where Jesus encounters a multitude of sick and disabled people at the pool of Bethesda. The pool was believed to have healing powers when an angel troubled the water. The preacher emphasizes that even in times of despair and when it seems like no one cares, Jesus is always there to help. He challenges the listeners to have faith and believe that God can meet their needs. The preacher also highlights the importance of having friends with faith who can support and help us in our journey.
Understanding Drug Addicts
By Jackie Pullinger4244:30Healing and RecoveryDeliveranceCompassion for AddictsGEN 3:7EXO 20:52SA 13:12PSA 102:17MAT 5:17MAT 11:28MRK 9:24JHN 5:6JAS 5:16REV 3:17Jackie Pullinger emphasizes the need for understanding and compassion towards drug addicts, sharing her experiences with individuals who have faced deep pain and shame. She highlights that addiction is often a response to trauma and that logical reasoning alone cannot help someone overcome their dependency. Pullinger stresses the importance of creating a safe environment for healing, where individuals can admit their struggles and receive support without judgment. She encourages the church to be proactive in providing ongoing care and accountability for those seeking recovery, recognizing that everyone has their own unique journey. Ultimately, she calls for a deeper understanding of the root causes of addiction and the necessity of God's grace in the healing process.
Wilt Thou Be Made Whole
By Phil Beach Jr.2150:46Christian LifeVulnerabilityHealingGEN 2:25GEN 3:10PSA 147:3MRK 2:17LUK 5:12LUK 5:18LUK 6:10JHN 5:6PHP 4:19JAS 5:16Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the importance of acknowledging our brokenness and the need for healing in his sermon 'Wilt Thou Be Made Whole.' He draws parallels between the physical and spiritual states of being, using the story of the man with the withered hand to illustrate how we often hide our true selves from God and others due to shame and pride. Beach challenges the congregation to confront their hidden struggles and to come before God with their vulnerabilities, reminding them that Jesus is the physician who heals the sick. The sermon calls for a deep desire for God's presence and a willingness to be made whole by exposing our weaknesses rather than concealing them. Ultimately, it is a call to authenticity in our relationship with God and each other.
What Sinners Should Plead With God
By Ralph Erskine22CH 20:12PSA 80:1ISA 53:11ISA 61:1EZK 36:26JHN 5:6REV 3:20Ralph Erskine preaches on the importance of pleading with God for a new heart and spirit, emphasizing the free and gracious promise in Ezekiel 36:26-27. He encourages acknowledging our feebleness and inability to change ourselves, urging us to seek God's helping hand for transformation. Erskine highlights the power of God in overcoming our weaknesses and the necessity of Christ in our lives, emphasizing the ease with which God can work faith in us. He also stresses the mercy, freedom, and extension of God's compassion, inviting us to come to Him for life. Lastly, Erskine urges listeners to plead Christ's commission and the value of His blood, encouraging a decision to receive Christ and embrace His offer of salvation.
The Great Physician
By A.W. Tozer0Faith and UnbeliefHealingMAT 9:12JHN 5:6A.W. Tozer emphasizes that many Christians live in a state of chronic discouragement, mistakenly believing that a victorious Christian life is unattainable for them. He challenges the notion that such feelings are normal, urging believers to recognize their unbelief as the root cause of their defeat. Tozer draws a parallel to the man at the Jerusalem pool, highlighting that the desire for healing and wholeness is essential for transformation. He encourages Christians to reject complacency and to actively seek the healing power of Jesus, who is always ready to make them whole.
Talk on Healing (John 5: "Wilt Thou Be Made Whole?")
By Hans R. Waldvogel0Divine HealingFaithISA 53:1JHN 5:6HEB 11:1HEB 11:6Hans R. Waldvogel emphasizes the necessity of faith in the process of healing, urging believers to trust in God's promises as revealed in Scripture. He reflects on his own journey of overcoming doubt and discovering the abundance of healing available through Christ, who took on our infirmities. Waldvogel challenges the congregation to believe in the unseen power of God and to approach Him with the expectation of wholeness, as Jesus asks, 'Wilt thou be made whole?' He highlights that faith is not just a feeling but a substantial reality rooted in the resurrection of Christ, which empowers believers to receive healing.
Matthew 15:21-28. the Woman of Tyre.
By Favell Lee Mortimer0MAT 12:13MAT 15:28JHN 5:61CO 10:13JAS 1:12Favell Lee Mortimer reflects on the compassionate nature of Jesus towards afflicted individuals, showcasing various responses to their pleas for healing and restoration. Through the story of the woman of Canaan, Mortimer emphasizes the woman's remarkable faith, patience, and humility despite her background and the initial delay in receiving mercy from Jesus. The preacher highlights the importance of persistent prayer, trust in God's faithfulness, and the need for secret worship and transactions with God in times of trial and distress.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Wilt thou be made whole? - Christ, by asking this question, designed to excite in this person faith, hope, and a greater desire of being healed. He wished him to reflect on his miserable state, that he might be the better prepared to receive a cure, and to value it when it came. Addresses of this kind are always proper from the preachers of the Gospel, that the hearts, as well of hardened as of desponding sinners, may be stirred up to desire and expect salvation. Do you wish to be healed? Do you know that you are under the power of a most inveterate and dangerous disease? If so, there is a remedy - have immediate recourse to the physician. Questions of this kind are frequently asked in the secret of our souls, by the inspirations of God's Spirit. Happy those who pay attention to them, and give right answers.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
saw him lie, and knew, &c.--As He doubtless visited the spot just to perform this cure, so He knows where to find His patient, and the whole previous history of his case (Joh 2:25). Wilt thou be made whole?--Could anyone doubt that a sick man would like to be made whole, or that the patients came thither, and this man had returned again and again, just in hope of a cure? But our Lord asked the question. (1) To fasten attention upon Himself; (2) By making him detail his case to deepen in him the feeling of entire helplessness; (3) By so singular a question to beget in his desponding heart the hope of a cure. (Compare Mar 10:51).
John Gill Bible Commentary
When Jesus saw him lie,.... In such a helpless condition: and knew that he had been now a long time, in that case, or "in his disease", as the Ethiopic version supplies; even seven years before Christ was born; which is a proof of his omniscience: the words may be literally rendered, as they are in the Vulgate Latin and Syriac versions, "that he had had much time"; or as the Arabic version, "that he had had many years"; that is had lived many years, and was now an old man; he had his disorder eight and thirty years, and which seems from Joh 5:14 to have arisen from some sin of his, from a vicious course of living, perhaps intemperance; so that he might be a middle aged man, when this distemper first seized him, and therefore must be now stricken in years: he saith unto him, wilt thou be made whole? which question is put, not as if it was a doubt, whether he was desirous of it, or not; for to what purpose did he lie and wait there else? but partly to raise in the man an expectation of a cure, and attention in the people to it: and it may be his sense and meaning is, wilt thou be made whole on this day, which was the sabbath; or hast thou faith that thou shall be made whole in this way, or by me?