but Jesus uttered the irresistible command, and instantly was health restored to this diseased man ; yea, he, who but the moment before could not get into the pool for want of help, now easily took up his bed and walked : nor was he intimidated by those who accused him of violating the Sabbath. He rightly judged that the person who had power to heal him thus miraculously, had also authority to direct his conduct.]
For a short season the man knew not the name of his benefactor, but soon after enjoyed an interview with him in the temple. On this occasion the Evangelist relates,
II. The admonition given him —
It was sin which had brought this infirmity upon him —
[God often punishes transgressors even in this lifec. This was extremely common under the Jewish economy ; nor are there wanting instances under the Christian dispensation d. If we could dive into the secrets of the Most High, it is pro- bable we should trace many of our troubles to sin as their proper source.]
Nevertheless this did not preclude the exercise of mercy towards him —
[Jesus was full of compassion even to the most unworthy. He often selected such to be the chief objects of his mercy e. Indeed, the displaying of his sovereignty, and grace, is a prin- cipal end of all his dispensations f.]
But he solemnly cautioned him against sin in future —
[Though Jesus pities sinners, he abhors their sin ; nor will he accept the persons of those who live in itg. He re- minded the man of the deliverance he had experienced, and guarded him against the cause of his past calamities. This admonition too he enforced with a most weighty argument. The years of misery that the cripple had endured were nothing in comparison of hell-torments : these will hereafter be the recompence of sin ; nor will any feel them so bitterly as back- sliders and apostates.]
To make a right improvement of these events ; we must yet further consider,
III. The instruction to be derived from both.
e Ps. cvii. 17, 18. d 1 Cor. xi. 30. e 1 Tim. i. 13—16.
f Eph. ii. 7. « Luke vi. 46.