TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
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?” John 5:6
Read: John 5:1-18
Listen: John 5
TODAY’S MESSAGE
Jesus enters Jerusalem and walks by a pool near the temple where many disabled people gather to be healed by the churning waters. We learned in our last sermon series that the Bible is a historically reliable document. The way John frames this story with accurate descriptions of location and architecture gives it historical accuracy. This pool was a real place and what happens there shows Jesus wants to heal us in ways we can’t imagine.
This story has three main players: Jesus, a lame man and the Pharisees. Jesus wants to share a glimpse of his eternal Kingdom and true healing. The lame man wants help getting healed. And the Pharisees want their Sabbath rules obeyed.
This week, we see that Jesus’s question, “Do you want to get well?” has a deeper meaning. When Jesus asks a question, he may have more in mind than what we think we need from him.
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
This week, open yourself to what Jesus wants to do in your life by praying, “God, I admit what I want isn’t necessarily what I need. Help me see what my true needs are and what you want for me. Help me get on board with your desires. I am yours. Amen.”
2022 BIBLE MEMORY PRACTICE
Develop spiritual roots and tap in the power of God’s word by memorizing monthly a Bible verse! View previous verses at beyondtheweekend.org/biblememorypractice.
PHILIPPIANS 4:5b–7
The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.
