Scripture: John 5:6 (ESV)
“When Jesus saw him lying there and knew that he had already been there a long time, he said to him, ‘Do you want to be healed?’”
Jesus sees. Jesus knows. Jesus speaks.
This verse reveals the heart of Christ toward the suffering. He sees the man. He knows his history. And He initiates the conversation—not with a declaration, but with a question: “Do you want to be healed?”
At first, the question might seem unnecessary. Of course a man who’s been crippled for thirty-eight years wants to be healed, doesn’t he? But Jesus never asks questions without purpose. He is drawing out something deeper—He’s not just interested in physical healing, but in engaging the man’s will, desire, and readiness to receive mercy.
J.C. Ryle writes, “There are spiritual lessons in this question. There are many who are not truly willing to be made whole. They cling to their sins.” Ryle notes how some people may long for relief from suffering but are not yet ready to surrender to the transforming grace of Christ. The question challenges not only the body—but the heart.
John Calvin focuses on the compassion and initiative of Jesus. “Before the sick man complains,” Calvin observes, “Christ draws near to him.” Jesus doesn’t wait for the man to cry out—He moves first. This reveals the grace of God, who seeks us before we seek Him, and who often speaks the first word in our salvation.
This verse invites each of us to examine our own hearts. Do we truly want to be made well—not just physically or emotionally, but spiritually? Are we ready to leave behind old ways, comfortable routines of misery, or patterns of unbelief?
The gospel begins here: with a Savior who sees, who knows, and who asks, “Do you really want to be made whole?”
Reflection Questions:
- How does Jesus’ question challenge you personally? Are there areas where you resist being “made well”?
- What does it mean for you to want not just relief, but healing—body, soul, and will?
- Where have you experienced Christ’s initiative—His grace stepping toward you before you even asked?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for seeing us, knowing us, and coming near. Thank You for asking the questions that expose our hearts. Help us to desire true healing—not just relief from suffering, but restoration from sin. Make us willing to be changed by You. Stir our hearts to say, “Yes, Lord—I want to be made well.” In Your name, Amen.
Covenant Presbyterian Church 