John 5:15

And the man went away and told the Jews that it was Jesus who had made him well.

Study Bible

The man went away
This phrase indicates a transition and a deliberate action taken by the man who had been healed. The Greek word used here for "went away" is "ἀπῆλθεν" (apēlthen), which implies a departure with purpose. In the context of the narrative, this action signifies the man's acknowledgment of the miracle he experienced and his intent to share this transformative event. Historically, this reflects the cultural practice of testifying to significant events, especially those involving divine intervention.

and told the Jews
The phrase "told the Jews" is significant in the context of the Gospel of John, where "the Jews" often refers to the Jewish leaders or authorities rather than the Jewish people as a whole. The Greek word "ἀνήγγειλεν" (anēngeilen) means to announce or report, suggesting that the man was eager to share the news of his healing. This reflects the societal structure where religious leaders held significant influence, and any miraculous event would naturally be reported to them. It also sets the stage for the ensuing conflict between Jesus and the Jewish authorities, highlighting the tension between Jesus' ministry and the established religious order.

that it was Jesus
This phrase identifies Jesus as the source of the healing. The Greek "Ἰησοῦς" (Iēsous) is the Hellenized form of the Hebrew name "Yeshua," meaning "Yahweh is salvation." By naming Jesus, the man not only acknowledges the miracle but also points to the divine authority and identity of Jesus. This declaration is pivotal in the narrative, as it directly associates Jesus with the miraculous act, thereby affirming His divine mission and authority.

who had made him well
The phrase "made him well" translates the Greek "ἐποίησεν αὐτὸν ὑγιῆ" (epoiēsen auton hygiē), which means to make whole or healthy. This not only refers to the physical healing of the man but also carries a deeper spiritual connotation of restoration and salvation. In the broader scriptural context, Jesus' healings are often symbolic of spiritual renewal and the coming of God's kingdom. This act of making well is a testament to Jesus' power and compassion, serving as a sign of His messianic role and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies concerning the coming of a healer and savior.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Man
A man who had been an invalid for 38 years, healed by Jesus at the Pool of Bethesda.

2. Jesus
The Son of God, who performed the miracle of healing the invalid on the Sabbath.

3. The Jews
Religious leaders who were concerned with the observance of the Sabbath laws.

4. Pool of Bethesda
A pool in Jerusalem where many disabled people gathered, hoping for healing.

5. The Healing Event
Jesus heals the man on the Sabbath, which leads to a confrontation with the Jewish leaders.

Teaching Points

Understanding the Sabbath
Jesus challenges the legalistic interpretation of the Sabbath, emphasizing mercy and compassion over ritual.

Witnessing to Others
The healed man testifies to the Jews about Jesus, showing the importance of sharing our encounters with Christ.

Recognizing Jesus' Authority
Jesus demonstrates His authority over physical ailments and religious traditions, affirming His divine nature.

Responding to Criticism
Jesus' actions invite criticism from religious leaders, teaching us to stand firm in our faith despite opposition.

The Role of Faith
The man's healing was initiated by Jesus, but his response in faith led to his testimony, highlighting the importance of faith in action.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the healing at the Pool of Bethesda challenge our understanding of the Sabbath and its purpose?

2. In what ways can we testify about Jesus' work in our lives, similar to the healed man's testimony to the Jews?

3. How does Jesus' authority over the Sabbath inform our understanding of His divine nature and mission?

4. What can we learn from Jesus' response to the criticism from the Jewish leaders about standing firm in our beliefs?

5. How does the concept of faith play a role in the healing accounts of the Gospels, and how can we apply this to our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

John 9
Another instance where Jesus heals on the Sabbath, leading to a similar confrontation with the Pharisees.

Mark 2:23-28
Jesus teaches about the Sabbath, emphasizing that it was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.

Isaiah 35:5-6
Prophecy about the coming of the Messiah, who will heal the blind, the lame, and the mute.

Exodus 20:8-11
The commandment to keep the Sabbath holy, which the Jewish leaders were zealous to protect.

Matthew 12:1-14
Jesus discusses the purpose of the Sabbath and performs a healing, challenging the Pharisees' understanding.