Do You Want to Be Well?" – A Catholic Reflection on John 5:1–47

Healing, Authority, and the Divine Witness of the Son

---

Introduction: Mercy Meets Misunderstanding

John 5 takes us into the heart of Jerusalem, to the pool of Bethesda, where a man has suffered for 38 years. Jesus sees him—and with just a word, restores him. But instead of rejoicing, the religious leaders criticize. Why? Because the healing happened on the Sabbath.

This chapter shifts the tone of John’s Gospel from wonder to conflict. Jesus not only heals, He claims divine authority—equal with the Father. For this, they begin plotting His death.

---

Verse-by-Verse Catholic Commentary

5:1–5

“A man was there who had been ill for 38 years…”
The number 38 echoes Israel’s 38 years of wandering in the desert (Deuteronomy 2:14). This man represents spiritual stagnation—waiting, hoping, unable to move.

5:6–9

“Do you want to be well?”
Jesus' question isn’t rhetorical. Healing begins with desire and openness. The man responds with excuses, yet Jesus heals him anyway—His mercy overflows even our limitations.