Rise, Take Up Your Bed, and Walk

English Standard Version Chapter 5

6 When Jesus saw him lying there and knew that he had already been there a long time, he said to him, “Do you want to be healed?” 7 The sick man answered him, “Sir, I have no one to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up, and while I am going another steps down before me.” 8 Jesus said to him, “Get up, take up your bed, and walk.” 9 And at once the man was healed, and he took up his bed and walked.

INTRODUCTION

Summary: In this passage, Jesus shows compassion by healing a man who has been disabled for 38 years on the Sabbath day, stirring controversy among the religious leaders.John 5:5–8 (ESV)

Application: This passage teaches us that Jesus is the ultimate source of healing and restoration, and He demonstrates that compassionate action should not be hindered by legalistic rules or religious traditions.

Teaching: Through this passage, we learn about Jesus' authority over sickness and disability, His willingness to heal, and His challenge to man-made regulations that prioritize legalism over mercy.

How this passage could point to Christ: In this passage, Jesus reveals Himself as the compassionate healer who fulfills the Old Testament prophecies of the Messiah who would bring restoration and deliverance to the oppressed.

Big Idea: Jesus demonstrates His authority over sickness, challenges legalistic religious attitudes, and reveals Himself as the compassionate healer who brings restoration and freedom.

Recommended Study: In preparing this sermon, deepen your understanding of the cultural and religious dynamics of Sabbath observance in Jesus' time using resources like 'The IVP Bible Background Commentary: New Testament' in Logos. Explore the significance of the man's 38 years of suffering and its symbolic meaning in relation to sin and redemption. Additionally, consider studying the theological implications of Jesus' healing miracles in the context of His identity and mission, using commentaries like 'The Gospel according to John' by D.A. Carson in Logos.

1. Desperation Meets Divine Compassion

John 5:1-5

You could delve into the desperation and hopelessness of the disabled man, reflecting on the years of suffering he endured. This sets the stage to discuss how Jesus is our compassionate healer who sees us in our desperation and is willing to step into our situation, challenging us to have faith even when circumstances seem impossible.

2. Divine Question, Powerful Command

John 5:6-9

Perhaps explore Jesus' question to the man, "Do you want to be made well?", as an invitation for personal reflection on our own desire for spiritual and physical healing. This point could underscore Jesus' authority to heal and restore us, inviting listeners to trust in His power to change our lives, even in ways that defy our expectations or societal norms.

3. Legalism Challenged by Love

John 5:10-13

You might discuss the reaction of the Jewish leaders to the healing, focusing on their legalistic approach to the Sabbath. This can be an opportunity to challenge listeners to examine their own attitudes towards religious traditions and legalism, encouraging a focus on the spirit of God's laws, which prioritize compassion and mercy over rigid adherence to rules.

4. Healing Beyond the Physical

John 5:14-16

Maybe focus on Jesus' encounter with the man at the temple, which emphasizes the deeper healing Jesus offers: a call to turn away from sin. This point could highlight the importance of pursuing a transformed life in response to Jesus' healing touch. It can also reiterate Jesus as the compassionate healer who not only cares about our physical condition but our spiritual well-being as well.