John 5:6 – “When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he asked him, ‘Do you want to get well?'”

Extended Explanation

This verse describes a powerful moment between Jesus and a man who had been suffering for thirty-eight years. Jesus approaches the man, sees his condition, and asks a surprising question: “Do you want to get well?”

At first, this might seem like an odd question. Of course, a man who had been disabled for decades would want to be healed, right? But Jesus’ question goes deeper than just physical healing. He is inviting the man to consider whether he is truly ready for a new life.

Sometimes people become so used to their struggles that they don’t really want change—they just want relief. Jesus’ question forces the man to think about what healing would mean. If he were healed, he wouldn’t be able to sit by the pool waiting for charity. He would have to take responsibility for his life. Jesus is not just offering him physical healing; He is offering transformation.

Historical Context

At the time, people with disabilities often depended on others to survive. They had no way to work, and society often viewed them as cursed or unworthy. This man had likely been living as a beggar for years, unable to do much else.

The Pool of Bethesda was believed to have healing powers, but the reality was that no one had been able to help this man. He had spent years hoping for something that never happened. Jesus’ arrival changes everything because He does not rely on superstition—He brings real healing.

Theological Implications

1. Jesus Seeks the Broken – The man didn’t call out to Jesus. Jesus saw him and approached him. This reflects how God actively seeks out those who are lost and hurting.
2. Healing is More Than Physical – Jesus’ question isn’t just about physical health. True healing includes spiritual restoration, and Jesus invites the man to consider a deeper transformation.
3. Personal Responsibility in Healing – Jesus’ question reminds us that real change requires willingness. Many people say they want freedom from sin, addiction, or brokenness, but they aren’t truly ready to let go of the old life.

Literary Analysis

John often uses conversations to reveal deep truths about Jesus. This verse highlights three key elements:

• Jesus saw him – This shows that Jesus is aware of human suffering and takes the initiative to help.
• Jesus learned his condition – This reveals Jesus’ compassion. He cares about individual struggles.
• Jesus asked a question – This is a pattern in Scripture. Jesus often asks people questions to make them think about their spiritual condition (e.g., Matthew 16:15, “Who do you say I am?”).

Biblical Cross-References

• Luke 19:10 – “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” Jesus sought out this man just as He seeks all who are in need.
• John 9:6-7 – Another healing where Jesus takes the initiative, showing His power over sickness.
• Matthew 11:28 – “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Jesus invites those who are struggling to find healing in Him.
• Psalm 103:2-3 – “Praise the Lord… who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases.” True healing comes from God, not from superstition or human effort.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse challenges us to examine whether we truly want the change that Jesus offers. Many people say they want freedom, but they hold onto their past because it’s familiar.

Jesus still asks people today: “Do you want to get well?” Do we truly want to be free from sin, fear, or bitterness? Or do we cling to these things because they have become part of our identity?

Jesus’ healing is not just about fixing problems—it’s about transforming lives.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is seen in the way Jesus sees the man, knows his suffering, and invites him to healing. This shows that God is not distant—He is deeply involved in our lives.

Jesus did not ignore this man, even though society likely had. This reflects God’s heart for the outcast, the broken, and the forgotten. His love reaches those whom others overlook.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus is not just a healer—He is the Savior. His question to the man reflects the same question He asks all people: “Do you want to be saved?”

• John 14:6 – Jesus is the only way to true healing and eternal life.
• Luke 5:31-32 – Jesus came not for the healthy, but for the sick—those who know they need Him.
• Isaiah 53:5 – By His wounds, we are healed. Jesus’ ultimate healing is found in His sacrifice for our sins.

Jesus’ power is not just over sickness—it is over sin and death. He offers new life to all who are willing to receive it.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Why do you think Jesus asked the man if he wanted to get well?
2. Are there areas in your life where you have been waiting for healing but not truly willing to change?
3. How does this passage challenge your understanding of what it means to be healed?
4. In what ways do we sometimes put our hope in the wrong things, like the man waiting at the pool?
5. How can we reflect Jesus’ compassion by seeing and reaching out to those who are suffering?

This verse reminds us that Jesus doesn’t just heal—He transforms. The question He asked the man is the same one He asks us today: “Do you truly want to be made whole?”