Scripture: John 5:11 (ESV) – “But he answered them, ‘The man who healed me, that man said to me, “Take up your bed, and walk.”’”
This verse is the healed man’s response to the Jewish leaders who were criticizing him for carrying his bed on the Sabbath. Rather than engaging in theological debate, the man simply tells them what happened: he was healed, and the one who healed him told him to walk. His answer is honest, direct, and powerful—not because it’s eloquent, but because it testifies to what Jesus had done for him.
Martin Luther, in reflecting on passages like this, often emphasized the power of personal experience in the Christian life. While the man may not have understood who Jesus was yet, he knew what Jesus had done. This became the basis of his witness. Luther reminds us that true faith often begins not with full theological understanding, but with recognizing the grace and power of God in our lives.
The man’s response also shows courage. He doesn’t seem to hesitate in speaking the truth, even though he is being confronted by religious authorities. His loyalty is already shifting—not to religious tradition, but to the One who healed him. He may not know Jesus’ name yet, but he’s already obeying His voice.
For us, this verse is a reminder that we don’t need to have all the answers to be faithful witnesses of Jesus. We simply need to testify to what He has done. Like the man at the pool, we can say: “The One who healed me told me to walk—and I did.” It is often this kind of simple, sincere testimony that points others most clearly to Christ.
Reflection Questions:
- Why do you think the man chose to respond with what Jesus told him rather than trying to justify himself?
- Have you ever hesitated to share your testimony because you felt you didn’t have all the theological answers?
- How can you grow in boldness to simply speak of what Jesus has done for you?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for healing us—not just physically, but spiritually. Help us to be like the man You healed: honest, bold, and faithful to speak of what You’ve done in our lives. Give us the courage to obey You even when others question us. Teach us to trust that simple obedience and honest testimony are powerful tools in Your hands. In Your name, Amen.
This devotional is based on John 5:11 and draws on themes emphasized in the writings of Martin Luther.
Covenant Presbyterian Church 