In this article titled “John 5-Lesson 6-3/5/24-Ruth Viola,” Ruth Viola from Refuge Calvary Chapel delivers a lesson on John 5. The lesson centers around the story of a man who was healed at the pool of Bethesda after suffering for 38 years. Ruth explores the significance of the location, the multitude of people gathered there, and emphasizes the importance of trusting in God’s healing power. She highlights Jesus’ authority to heal and judge, warns against legalism and judgment towards others, and encourages listeners to examine their hearts and seek healing and salvation in Jesus.
The lesson begins with a prayer, acknowledging God’s continuous presence and guidance. Ruth dives into the passage, discussing the historical context and the importance of each detail mentioned. She explores the reasons why Jesus approached the specific man in need of healing, highlighting the divine plan and the will of the Father. Ruth also addresses the struggles we face in our own prayers and the need to trust in God’s higher ways, even when we don’t understand His answers. She concludes by emphasizing Jesus’ invitation to be made well and the need to let go of our clinging to misery and embrace the healing He offers.
Overview
Summary of the lesson on John 5
In this lesson on John 5, taught by Ruth Viola from Refuge Calvary Chapel, we dive into the story of a man who was healed at the pool of Bethesda after 38 years of suffering. We explore the significance of the location and the multitude of people gathered there, and we discuss the importance of trusting in God’s healing rather than relying on man or ourselves.
The Story of the Man at the Pool of Bethesda
Introduction to the story
The story takes place in Jerusalem during a feast of the Jews. Jesus goes up to Jerusalem and encounters a pool called Bethesda, which has five porches. In these porches, a great multitude of sick people, including the blind, lame, and paralyzed, gather and wait for the stirring of the water.
The man’s suffering for 38 years
One particular man caught Jesus’ attention. He had been suffering from an infirmity for 38 years. Jesus saw his condition and knew that he had been in that state for a long time. He asked him if he wanted to be made well, demonstrating compassion and a desire to help.
The significance of the pool of Bethesda
The pool of Bethesda held a special meaning. Its name, derived from Hebrew, translates to the “house of mercy” and “compassion.” It was the place where the lamb destined to take away the sins of the world would meet a man in need of mercy and compassion. The location and the gathering of the multitude of people served a purpose in this story.
Importance of Trusting in God’s Healing
Relying on God rather than man or ourselves
This lesson highlights the importance of trusting in God’s healing rather than relying on human efforts or our own strength. The story of the man at the pool of Bethesda teaches us that Jesus has the power to bring healing and restoration, and we should place our trust in Him.
Putting our faith in God’s power to heal
Trusting in God’s power to heal requires faith. We need to believe that Jesus is capable of bringing healing and deliverance into our lives. By surrendering our doubts and fears to Him, we open ourselves up to receive His healing touch and experience the transformation He offers.
Jesus’ Authority to Heal and Judge
Highlighting Jesus’ authority to heal
Throughout the lesson, we are reminded of the authority Jesus possesses to heal. He saw the man’s condition and knew that he had been suffering for a long time. Jesus wanted to bring healing into the man’s life, showcasing His authority and ability to bring wholeness.
The importance of belief in Jesus for eternal life
Belief in Jesus is not only crucial for healing and restoration in this life but also for attaining eternal life. Jesus Himself declares that those who hear His voice and believe will live. By placing our faith in Him, we can experience the gift of eternal life and the hope it brings.
Jesus’ role as the ultimate judge
In addition to His authority to heal, Jesus holds the ultimate role of judge. The lesson emphasizes the importance of believing in Jesus, as it determines our fate in the judgment to come. Accepting Jesus as our Savior not only brings the healing we seek but also ensures our eternal destiny.
Warning Against Legalism and Judgment
The dangers of legalistic behavior
The lesson warns against the dangers of legalistic behavior. Jesus encounters opposition from the religious leaders who criticize Him for healing on the Sabbath. This highlights the importance of focusing on the heart behind our actions rather than rigidly following rules and regulations.
Avoiding judgment towards others
We are reminded to avoid falling into the trap of judgment towards others. Jesus cautions against passing judgment without understanding the full picture and encourages us to extend grace and compassion to others. By following His example, we can cultivate a culture of love and acceptance.
References to Moses and John the Baptist
Moses and John the Baptist as witnesses to Jesus’ authority
The lesson highlights references to Moses and John the Baptist as witnesses to Jesus’ authority. Jesus mentions Moses as someone they trust, and John the Baptist is described as bearing witness to the truth. These references serve to emphasize Jesus’ divinity and the validity of His teachings.
Emphasizing Jesus’ divinity through these references
Through these references, the lesson emphasizes the divinity of Jesus. Moses and John the Baptist, both respected figures in Jewish history, validate Jesus’ authority as the Son of God. Their testimonies support Jesus’ claims and reinforce the importance of putting our faith in Him.
Self-Examination and Seeking Healing in Jesus
Encouragement to examine one’s own heart
The lesson encourages listeners to examine their own hearts. It prompts us to reflect on our motivations and intentions, ensuring that we are seeking healing and restoration for the right reasons. Self-examination allows us to confront any areas of our lives that need transformation.
Seeking healing and salvation in Jesus
The ultimate goal is to seek healing and salvation in Jesus. By acknowledging our brokenness and turning to Him, we can experience the wholeness and redemption He offers. This involves surrendering our control and trusting in His guidance for our lives.
Conclusion
Recap of the key points from the lesson
In conclusion, this lesson on John 5 taught by Ruth Viola provides powerful insights. We explored the story of the man at the pool of Bethesda and the significance of his encounter with Jesus. We discussed the importance of trusting in God’s healing, Jesus’ authority to heal and judge, the dangers of legalism and judgment, references to Moses and John the Baptist, and the need for self-examination and seeking healing in Jesus.
Final thoughts on the significance of trusting in God’s healing and belief in Jesus
Trusting in God’s healing and placing our belief in Jesus is essential for experiencing true transformation and eternal life. Through faith, we can find hope, restoration, and purpose. As we navigate life’s challenges, let us remember the lessons from John 5 and lean on God’s healing power, trusting in His divine plan for our lives.