39 You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that bear witness about me,
Setting the Scene for John 5:39
In John chapter 5, we find Jesus in Jerusalem during one of the Jewish festivals. The scene is set near the Pool of Bethesda, a place known for its healing properties. Surrounding the pool are five covered colonnades where a great number of disabled people, blind, lame, and paralyzed, gather, hoping to be healed when the water is stirred.
Among the crowd is a man who has been an invalid for thirty-eight years. He lies on a mat, waiting for someone to help him into the pool when the water is stirred, believing that it is the only way he can be healed. Jesus approaches the man and asks him if he wants to get well. The man explains his situation, and Jesus, showing compassion, tells him to get up, pick up his mat, and walk. Instantly, the man is healed, picks up his mat, and walks away, rejoicing in his newfound health.
In this powerful scene, we witness Jesus’ compassion and miraculous healing power, as well as the faith and perseverance of the man who had been waiting for healing for so long. The encounter serves as a reminder of Jesus’ ability to bring about transformation and restoration in the lives of those who believe in Him.
What is John 5:39 about?
This powerful verse from the Bible, spoken by Jesus Himself, urges us to dive deeply into the Scriptures to truly understand Him. Jesus emphasizes the importance of studying God’s Word to gain knowledge and insight into who He is by instructing us to “search the Scriptures.” Through searching the Scriptures, we can uncover profound truths about Jesus’ character, teachings, and mission.
Have you ever wondered how well you truly know Jesus? We gain a better understanding of His nature and develop a closer relationship with Him by immersing ourselves in the Scriptures. Just as a treasure hunter meticulously examines every detail to find the hidden gems, we are encouraged to dig into the Word of God to unearth the rich treasures of Christ’s identity and purpose.
So, let us heed Jesus’ timeless advice and commit ourselves to studying the Scriptures diligently. We will discover a deeper connection with Jesus and a greater appreciation for the significance of His life and teachings as we immerse ourselves in God’s Word.
Understanding what John 5:39 really means
Commentary Structure:
- Introduction
- Contextual Background
- Detailed Explanation
- Cross-references with Other Biblical Passages
- Relevance to Modern Life
- Anecdotal Illustration
- Jesus addresses the religious leaders of His time in John 5:39, offering a profound insight into the nature of Scripture and its purpose. This verse challenges us to look beyond the words on the page and seek the deeper truth they reveal.
Contextual Background
To understand this verse, it’s essential to recognize the context. Jesus was speaking to the Pharisees, who prided themselves on their knowledge of the Scriptures. They diligently studied the texts, believing that their knowledge alone would grant them eternal life. However, Jesus points out that their approach was missing something crucial.
Detailed Explanation
The phrase “you search the Scriptures” emphasizes the diligence and effort the Pharisees invested in their study. Yet, Jesus notes that “it is they that bear witness about me.” Here, Jesus is revealing that the Scriptures, from Genesis to Malachi, point to Him. The religious leaders were missing the forest for the trees; they were so focused on the text that they missed the living Word it testified about.
Cross-references with Other Biblical Passages
This idea is echoed in Luke 24:27, where Jesus, after His resurrection, explains to two disciples on the road to Emmaus “beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.” Additionally, in Hebrews 10:7, it says, “Then I said, ‘Behold, I have come to do your will, O God, as it is written of me in the scroll of the book.’” These passages reinforce that Jesus is the fulfillment of the Scriptures.
Relevance to Modern Life
Today, we can fall into a similar trap as the Pharisees if we approach the Bible merely as a text to be studied rather than a living document that points us to a relationship with Jesus. The Bible is not just a book of rules or history; it’s a revelation of God’s love and plan for humanity through Jesus Christ. We must seek Jesus in the Scriptures in our daily lives and let them transform our hearts, not just inform our minds. A man meticulously studied maps of Paris, learning every street and landmark. However, when he finally visited the city, he was so focused on his maps that he forgot to look up and experience the beauty and life of Paris itself. Similarly, if we focus solely on the words of the Bible without seeking the person of Jesus, we miss the essence of what those words are pointing us to.
Conclusion
John 5:39 serves as a powerful reminder to seek Jesus in our study of the Scriptures. The Bible is a pathway to knowing Him, not an end in itself. Approaching our study with this mindset opens us to a deeper, more transformative relationship with Christ. The Scriptures should lead us to the living Word, Jesus Christ, rather than missing the forest for the trees.
How can we truly know and follow God’s word?
To truly know and follow God’s word, we must seek to understand its deeper meaning. Simply reading the words on the surface level is not enough. We should dig into the context, background, and teachings of the scripture to grasp its true significance.
Following God’s word involves not just knowing it intellectually but also applying it in our lives. It is not enough to be familiar with the teachings; we must strive to live out those teachings in our thoughts, actions, and relationships. This requires a sincere commitment to aligning our lives with the principles and values laid out in the scripture. Constant learning, reflection, and growth are required in the journey of knowing and following God’s word. It is about seeking a deeper connection with God through His teachings and allowing His word to shape and transform us into being more in alignment with His will.
Application
Think of the Bible as the ultimate handbook for life’s journey. Just as you wouldn’t skim a crucial work email or ignore important family advice, don’t just breeze through the Scriptures. Dive deep and let the words shape your heart and actions. Will you step up and engage with the Word of God, not just as readers, but as true disciples?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.