PALSY-PLAGUED & THE POWER OF A SAVIOR’S SUMMONS!

“And Jesus said unto him, Receive thy sight: thy faith hath saved thee.” (Luke 18:42, KJV)

ABSTRACT

This article delves into the biblical narrative of the miracle at the Pool of Bethesda as a metaphor for humanity’s spiritual paralysis caused by sin and the transformative healing power of faith in Jesus Christ. It explores God’s boundless love demonstrated through redemption, our responsibilities toward God and our neighbors, and practical applications for daily Christian living in anticipation of Christ’s return.

FRIENDS GATHER ROUND!

Friends, seekers of truth across every creed and conviction, gather ’round! We delve into a story of profound spiritual significance, a narrative echoing through the ages, found within the Gospel of John. It’s a tale of paralysis, not just of the body, but of the soul. This article is for us to have a deeper understanding of the human condition and the boundless power of Christ’s healing touch. We’ll explore the depths of human helplessness and the soaring heights of divine intervention, all while keeping our feet firmly planted in the rich soil of Scripture and the inspired writings of Ellen G. White. Our aim is not simply to inform but to transform, to empower us to better minister to a world desperately in need of the Savior’s touch. This story should remind all people that there is a solution to all problems found in Jesus. Psalm 34:19 states,”Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all.” We also find hope in, Jeremiah 33:6, “Behold, I will bring it health and cure, and I will cure them, and will reveal unto them the abundance of peace and truth.” Christ heals our spiritual afflictions through His power, as expressed in Isaiah 53:5, KJV: “But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.” Psalm 103:2-3, KJV, further reveals His mercy: “Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases.” Prayer opens the heart to God as to a friend. Not that it is necessary in order to make known to God what we are, but in order to enable us to receive Him. Prayer does not bring God down to us, but brings us up to Him (Steps to Christ, p. 93, 1892). Unceasing prayer forms the unbroken union of the soul with God, so that life from God flows into our life; and from our life, purity and holiness flow back to God (Steps to Christ, p. 98, 1892). We should never think that our situations are too hard for God, but what does this miracle look like in action at the pool of Bethesda?

BETHESDA BLAST BEGINS!

The scene unfolds at the pool of Bethesda, a place teeming with the sick, the lame, and the desperate, all yearning for a miraculous touch. John 5:8, 9 (first part) sets the stage, describing the seemingly impossible command Jesus gives to a man crippled for thirty-eight long years: “Rise, take up thy bed, and walk. And immediately the man was made whole…” Imagine the sheer audacity of this command! It’s like telling a mountain to move or the sea to part. Yet, this is precisely what Jesus does, not with a magic spell or a complex ritual, but with a simple, authoritative word. The bible highlights this point in, Psalm 33:9, “For he spake, and it was done; he commanded, and it stood fast.” Jesus word is sure. Sr. White beautifully captures the moment, noting that Jesus does not first require an explicit act of faith but speaks the word, and the man’s belief takes hold of that directive, “Jesus does not ask this sufferer to exercise faith in Him. He simply says, ‘Rise, take up thy bed, and walk.’ But the man’s faith takes hold upon that word.” (The Desire of Ages, pp. 202, 203). The miracle is immediate and complete, a testament to the creative power residing in the very voice of Christ. It is in this response, this willingness to act on the word of Jesus, that healing bursts forth. We are reminded, as well, of the centurion’s servant, healed by Jesus’ word from afar (Matthew 8:8, 13): “The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed…And Jesus said unto the centurion, Go thy way; and as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee. And his servant was healed in the selfsame hour.” The power is not in the proximity, but in the Person. Sr. White expands on the words and power of Jesus. “Christ’s word—His promise—is the only assurance that the sinner will receive pardon, peace, and grace. Christ declares to every repenting soul, “As I live, saith the Lord God, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live.” Ezekiel 33:11.” (Signs of the Times, March 31, 1890). Christ’s word—His promise—is the only assurance that the sinner will receive pardon, peace, and grace (Review and Herald, December 23, 1890). When faith brings the blessing to your heart, and you rejoice in the blessing, it is no more faith, but feeling (Gospel Workers, p. 261, 1915). In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made (John 1:1-3, KJV). For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart (Hebrews 4:12, KJV). But what happens when the soul is crippled, unable to move towards God?

SOUL SICKNESS STRIKES!

Now, let’s shift our focus. We’ve witnessed physical paralysis, but what about the spiritual equivalent? What happens when the soul is crippled, unable to move towards God? The prophet Isaiah paints a bleak picture of humanity’s condition, describing us as wounded and bruised: “The whole head is sick, and the whole heart faint. From the sole of the foot even unto the head there is no soundness in it; but wounds, and bruises, and putrifying sores…” (Isaiah 1:5, 6). This isn’t just a poetic flourish; it’s a stark diagnosis of our spiritual state apart from God. We are incapable of saving ourselves. Jeremiah 13:23 asks a poignant question, highlighting the ingrained nature of sin: “Can the Ethiopian change his skin, or the leopard his spots? then may ye also do good, that are accustomed to do evil.” The answer, implicitly, is no. The Apostle Paul, in Romans 7:24, cries out in anguish, recognizing his own helplessness: “O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?” This, my friends, is the cry of every soul separated from its Creator, bound by the chains of sin and yearning for liberation. He echoes this sentiment again in Romans 7:18,19: “For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do.” The struggle is real, and the solution is external. Sr. White, in her profound insights, mirrors this sentiment when she observes, “By sin we have been severed from the life of God. Our souls are palsied. Of ourselves we are no more capable of living a holy life than was the impotent man capable of walking…”(The Desire of Ages, p. 203). This inner paralysis, this inability to live righteously, is the universal human predicament. She continues, “We can no more repent without the Spirit of Christ to awaken the conscience than we can be pardoned without Christ.” (Steps to Christ, p. 26). Our very ability to turn back to God is a gift from Him. And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins (Ephesians 2:1, KJV). As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one (Romans 3:10-12, KJV). The sinner cannot, by any power of his own, rid himself of sin. For the accomplishment of this result, he must look to a higher Power. John exclaimed, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” Christ alone has power to cleanse the heart. He who is seeking for forgiveness and acceptance can say only,– “Nothing in my hand I bring; Simply to Thy cross I cling.” But the promise of sonship is made to all who “believe on his name.” Every one who comes to Jesus in faith will receive pardon (Signs of the Times, September 4, 1884). So we have nothing in ourselves of which to boast. We have no ground for self-exaltation. Our only ground of hope is in the righteousness of Christ imputed to us, and in that wrought by His Spirit working in and through us (Steps to Christ, p. 63, 1892). But what is the remedy?

FAITH FOOTSTEPS FORWARD!

So, what is the remedy? Is there any hope for those of us trapped in this spiritual paralysis? The answer, resounding through the corridors of Scripture, is a resounding “Yes!” Acts 3:16 reveals the source of true healing: “And his name through faith in his name hath made this man strong, whom ye see and know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all.” It is through faith in the name of Jesus, in His power and authority, that we find restoration. Think of it like this: a broken radio cannot receive signals until it’s repaired. Similarly, our broken connection with God must be mended through faith. It’s not a passive belief, but an active trust that empowers us to take the first step. Hebrews 11:6 underscores the necessity of faith: “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” And, Romans 10:17 explains how this faith comes: “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” “The Saviour is bending over the purchase of His blood, saying with inexpressible tenderness and pity, ‘Wilt thou be made whole?’ He bids you arise in health and peace,” Sr. White poignantly describes. She continues: “Do not wait to feel that you are made whole. Believe His word, and it will be fulfilled. Put your will on the side of Christ. Will to serve Him, and in acting upon His word you will receive strength…” (The Desire of Ages, p. 203). The cure is not in feeling, but in willing; not in waiting, but in acting. James 2:20 reinforces the idea that faith without corresponding action is useless: “But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?” It’s a living faith that transforms. “The salvation of man depends upon a continual application to his soul of the cleansing blood of Christ. Therefore, it is not enough to accept the blood of Christ for the forgiveness of sin; but we need to apply it to our lives, day by day, through prayer and faith.” (Manuscript Releases, vol. 8, 260) And he said unto her, Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace, and be whole of thy plague (Mark 5:34, KJV). And he said unto him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole (Luke 17:19, KJV). There is a kind of belief that is wholly distinct from faith. The existence and power of God, the truth of His word, are facts that even Satan and his hosts cannot at heart deny. The Bible says that “the devils also believe, and tremble;” but this is not faith. James 2:19. Where there is not only a belief in God’s word, but a submission of the will to Him; where the heart is yielded to Him, the affections fixed upon Him, there is faith—faith that works by love and purifies the soul. Through this faith the heart is renewed in the image of God (Steps to Christ, p. 63, 1892). We shall often have to bow down and weep at the feet of Jesus because of our shortcomings and mistakes, but we are not to be discouraged. Even if we are overcome by the enemy, we are not cast off, not forsaken and rejected of God. No; Christ is at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. Said the beloved John, “These things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.” 1 John 2:1. And do not forget the words of Christ, “The Father Himself loveth you.” John 16:27. He desires to restore you to Himself, to see His own purity and holiness reflected in you. And if you will but yield yourself to Him, He that hath begun a good work in you will carry it forward to the day of Jesus Christ. Pray more fervently; believe more fully (Steps to Christ, p. 64, 1892). But how do these concepts—paralysis, healing, and faith—reflect the boundless love of God?

LOVE LIGHTNING LANDS!

How do these concepts—paralysis, healing, and faith—reflect the boundless love of God? Consider the lengths to which God went to restore humanity. It wasn’t a mere wave of the hand, an effortless decree. It was a costly sacrifice, a descent into the very heart of human suffering. God, in the person of Jesus Christ, entered our broken world, not as a distant observer, but as a participant. Romans 5:8 showcases this incredible love: “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” He didn’t wait for us to become worthy; He loved us in our unworthiness. 1 John 4:10 provides, “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” God took the initiative. We find a parallel in the words of early Adventist pioneer J.N. Loughborough, “It was sin that caused the separation between God and man, and the plan of redemption is the plan devised by Heaven to bridge the gulf, to make it possible for man, notwithstanding his sins, to be reunited to God.”(J.N. Loughborough, The Church, Its Organization, Order and Discipline, p. 41) This underscores that God did not create us and then leave us to wallow in our misery. He actively seeks our restoration. Sr. White says: “God’s forgiveness is not merely a judicial act by which He sets us free from condemnation. It is not only forgiveness for sin, but reclaiming from sin. It is the outflow of redeeming love that transforms the heart.” (Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, p. 114). God’s love is not a passive sentiment; it’s an active, pursuing, redeeming force. Uriah Smith, another Adventist Pioneer, affirmed: “God is love;’ and that love was manifested in the gift of his Son. He ‘so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”2 (Looking Unto Jesus, p.12). For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life (John 3:16, KJV). But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) (Ephesians 2:4-5, KJV). All the paternal love which has come down from generation to generation through the channel of human hearts, all the springs of tenderness which have opened in the souls of men, are but as a tiny rill to the boundless ocean when compared with the infinite, exhaustless love of God (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 740, 1889). None but the Son of God could accomplish our redemption; for only He who was in the bosom of the Father could declare Him. Only He who knew the height and depth of the love of God could make it manifest. Nothing less than the infinite sacrifice made by Christ in behalf of fallen man could express the Father’s love to lost humanity (Steps to Christ, p. 14, 1892). But in light of these breathtaking truths, what is my responsibility toward God?

SURRENDER SUMMONS!

In light of these breathtaking truths, what is my responsibility toward God? Is it enough to simply acknowledge His love and power? Surely not! Our response must be one of heartfelt surrender and obedience. James 2:26 declares, “For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.” Our faith is not a static possession; it’s a living, dynamic force that compels us to action. This means aligning our will with His, striving to live a life that reflects His character. We are called to be more than hearers of the word; we must be doers. Deuteronomy 10:12, 13 sums up our duty beautifully: “And now, Israel, what doth the LORD thy God require of thee, but to fear the LORD thy God, to walk in all his ways, and to love him, and to serve the LORD thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul, To keep the commandments of the LORD, and his statutes, which I command thee this day for thy good?” This is not a burden, but a pathway to blessing. 1 John 5:3 clarifies, “For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.” Obedience is the fruit of love, not the root of salvation. “Not a mere assent to the truth constitutes faith that will save the sinner; the language of the heart must be: ‘I accept Christ as my personal Saviour.’ This is true faith; but those who have this faith will be obedient to all God’s commandments.” (Ellen G. White, Signs of the Times, June 16, 1890). Our responsibility is, therefore, a life of ongoing surrender, obedience, and active faith, not as a means to earn salvation, but as a natural outflow of a heart transformed by grace. J.H. Waggoner, a leading figure of early advent believers, writes: “The law of God is a transcript of his character; and obedience to that law is simply being like God, an imitation of the divine character. (The Spirit of Prophecy, Volume 1, 309.) And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams (1 Samuel 15:22, KJV). If ye love me, keep my commandments (John 14:15, KJV). All true obedience comes from the heart. It was heart work with Christ. And if we consent, He will so identify Himself with our thoughts and aims, so blend our hearts and minds into conformity to His will, that when obeying Him we shall be but carrying out our own impulses. The will, refined and sanctified, will find its highest delight in doing His service. When we know God as it is our privilege to know Him, our life will be a life of continual obedience (Desire of Ages, p. 668, 1898). Let the children learn to see in nature an expression of the love and the wisdom of God; let the thought of Him be linked with bird and flower and tree; let all things seen become to them the interpreters of the unseen, and all the events of life be a means of divine teaching. As they learn thus to study the lessons in all created things and in all life’s experiences, show that the same laws which govern the things of nature and the events of life are to control us, that they are given for our good, and that only in obedience to them can we find true happiness and success (Education, p. 103, 1903). But what of our responsibility toward our neighbor?

NEIGHBOR NURTURE NOW!

And what of our responsibility toward our neighbor, toward those around us who may also be suffering, either physically or spiritually? Are we to be mere bystanders, content with our own healing? Again, the answer is a resounding “No!” Just as Christ reached out to the man at Bethesda, we are called to extend our hands to those in need. We are to be conduits of His grace, instruments of His healing power. This might involve acts of kindness, words of encouragement, or sharing the good news of the gospel. It means recognizing that every human being, regardless of their background or beliefs, is a soul for whom Christ died. Galatians 6:10 encourages us, “As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.” Our love should extend to all, with a special emphasis on fellow believers. Proverbs 3:27, 28 further instructs,”Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it. Say not unto thy neighbour, Go, and come again, and to morrow I will give; when thou hast it by thee.” Delaying kindness is denying kindness. “We are all woven together in the great web of humanity, and God holds us responsible for one another’s souls, and in His providence He has ordained that men should be brought together, that they should be bound up with one another, that they should be united in affection, in order that the weak may be made strong, the ignorant wise, the wavering steadfast.” (That I May Know Him, p. 258.) This is not merely a suggestion; it’s a divine imperative, a reflection of the very heart of God, who desires that all should come to repentance and be saved. Sr. White also highlighted this, saying: “The world needs today what it needed nineteen hundred years ago,—a revelation of Christ. A great work of reform is demanded, and it is only through the grace of Christ that the work of restoration, physical, mental, and spiritual, can be accomplished.” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 143.) Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the LORD (Leviticus 19:18, KJV). And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself (Matthew 22:39, KJV). We greatly need consecrated women, who, as messengers of mercy, will visit the mothers and the children in their homes (Welfare Ministry, p. 146, 1952). Women can be instruments of righteousness, rendering holy service. It was Mary that first preached a risen Jesus. . . . If there were twenty women where now there is one, who would make this holy mission (one-to-one ministry) their cherished work, we should see many more converted to the truth (Testimony Treasures, vol. 2, p. 405, 1949). But how can we apply these lessons in our daily lives?

LESSONS LEAP TO LIFE!

How can we apply these lessons in our daily lives? First, we must cultivate a deep, personal relationship with Christ, spending time in His Word and in prayer. This is the wellspring of our strength and the foundation of our ministry. Psalm 119:105 reminds us, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” And, 1 Thessalonians 5:17 exhorts us to “Pray without ceasing.” This constant communion with God is essential. Second, we must be vigilant in recognizing the spiritual paralysis around us, both in ourselves and in others. This requires discernment, empathy, and a willingness to engage with the struggles of those we encounter. Hebrews 4:12 tells us, “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” Through God’s word, we can learn how to discern. Third, we must boldly proclaim the healing power of Christ, not just in words, but in deeds. This means living a life that reflects His love and compassion, being a beacon of hope in a dark and hurting world. Matthew 5:16 challenges us: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” And Micah 6:8, “He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?” I must ask myself: Am I truly living out the implications of the gospel? Are we, as a church, fulfilling our mission to be a healing presence in the world? These are questions that demand honest reflection and a renewed commitment to our calling. Perhaps there’s a colleague struggling with addiction, a neighbor facing loneliness, or a family member estranged from God. These are opportunities for us to be the hands and feet of Jesus, to offer a word of hope, a helping hand, a listening ear. “Every true disciple is born into the kingdom of God as a missionary. He who drinks of the living water becomes a fountain of life. The receiver becomes a giver. The grace of Christ in the soul is like a spring in the desert, welling up to refresh all, and making those who are ready to perish eager to drink of the water of life.” (The Desire of Ages, p. 195). Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God (Philippians 4:6, KJV). And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him (Colossians 3:17, KJV). The life of Christ was a life of humble simplicity, yet how infinitely exalted was his mission. Christ is our example in all things (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2, p. 127, 1868). Through the grace of Christ we shall live in obedience to the law of God written upon our hearts. Having the Spirit of Christ, we shall walk even as He walked (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 372, 1890). But what does this story mean for our time?

PARABLE POWER PREVAILS!

The story of the man at Bethesda is more than just a historical account; it’s a living parable for our time. It reminds us that we are all, in a sense, paralyzed by sin, utterly incapable of saving ourselves. But it also proclaims the glorious truth that Christ has the power to heal us, to set us free, and to empower us to live a life of purpose and meaning. As we are called to be ambassadors of this message, sharing it with a world desperately in need of hope. Mark 16:15 captures our mission: “And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” This is the Great Commission, our marching orders. And, 2 Corinthians 5:20 reminds us, “Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.” We represent Him to the world. Let us go forth, then, not in our own strength, but in the power of the One who said, “Rise, take up thy bed, and walk.” The challenge is before us. The power is available. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen (Matthew 28:19-20, KJV). But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth (Acts 1:8, KJV). More than this, Christ changes the heart. He abides in your heart by faith. You are to maintain this connection with Christ by faith and the continual surrender of your will to Him; and so long as you do this, He will work in you to will and to do according to His good pleasure (Steps to Christ, p. 62, 1892). Those who become new creatures in Christ Jesus will bring forth the fruits of the Spirit, “love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance.” Galatians 5:22, 23. They will no longer fashion themselves according to the former lusts, but by the faith of the Son of God they will follow in His steps, reflect His character, and purify themselves even as He is pure (Steps to Christ, p. 58, 1892).

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast (Ephesians 2:8-9, KJV).

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PALSY-PLAGUED & THE POWER OF A SAVIOR’S SUMMONS!

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