John 5 - The Swindoll Study Bible

“WOULD YOU LIKE TO GET WELL?” John 5:6 That’s an odd question to ask a man who has been waiting for thirty-eight years to be healed. I think the reason Jesus asked this question is because in this man’s mind was blaming, bitterness, and the belief that he continued to be sick because nobody would help him into the pool. I think Jesus pointed a finger at him, as it were, and said, “Look. Your illness is a matter of your own concern and responsibility. Don’t blame anyone else. Instead, find the desire and the trust in God to receive healing.”

JUDGMENT John 5:24 Look at this promise. Many Christians today are worried about some kind of judgment. But it is non-Christians whose judgment is ahead of them. For Christians, our judgment is behind us. Jesus Christ was judged on our behalf on the cross.

A SHINING LAMP John 5:35 John was not just a lamp—he was a lamp that was “burning and shining.” A lamp doesn’t burn by itself; it must be lit. When it is shining, it gives warmth and welcome.

There’s just something about having a light on when you come home. When I’ve been away on a trip, I just love turning into my driveway and seeing the lights on in the house. It says, “Welcome home.” John brought light like that. Behind his stern and independent character, there was a warmth and a welcome.

You may be the only lamp where you live or work or go to school. You need to be burning and shining. Bringing the Good News of our Lord calls for character, but it also calls for warmth and welcome as we represent the person of Christ.