Day 25
Today’s reading: John 5:1-15
Sin no More
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Sin no More 〰️
Reflections
Why would Jesus tell the man to "sin no more" after healing him? Was it because he was the worst sinner before his ailment? The ultimate purpose of every divine act is salvation. While God's love and compassion lead to healing and miracles, the true goal is that these acts draw us closer to Him. If healing or blessings only address our temporary needs but don't bring us into a deeper relationship with God, then they serve little purpose. What good is it to be healed in a body that will still decay, if our spirit ends up in eternal separation from God? Many people seek only what God can give, not God Himself. Jesus warns that such an approach leads to disaster unless they repent. So, like Jesus, when we are empowered by the Holy Spirit to bless someone—whether through natural means or supernatural miracles—let us always seek to lead them to Christ, their true Savior. That is the true purpose of the gifts of the Holy Spirit.
Study Questions
Why did Jesus choose to heal this specific lame man out of the many sick people at the pool of Bethesda (5:3)? What might be the significance of His selection?
Was Jesus suggesting that the man’s infirmity was the result of sin? What might the "worst thing" be that could happen to him if he continued in sin, as implied by Jesus' warning in verse 14?
What was the historical and cultural significance of the pool of Bethesda in first-century Judaism? How does this context shape the meaning of the healing event?
What did you learn about God’s nature, His ways and His will from today’s reading?
Highlight
“Afterward Jesus found him in the temple and said to him, “See, you are well! Sin no more, that nothing worse may happen to you.”” John 5:14 ESV
