What does John 5:8 mean?

In the prior chapter, Jesus met a man seeking a miracle (John 4:46–54). This official wanted healing for his son and was persistent in asking Jesus for it. Jesus granted the request. But He also made the man prove his own faith by leaving without any assurance that his request had been granted. Here, the man by the pool has made no requests of Jesus whatsoever. Even when Jesus asked (John 5:6), the invalid man does not say, "yes." Instead, he complains about having no one to help him.

This makes Jesus' action more curious. This is the third "sign" recorded in this gospel by John, of only seven total. And yet, it's performed on a man who not only didn't ask for it, but he might not have even wanted it! This healing is a display of Jesus' divine power. It's a story-picture of our relationship to Him. Even when we don't seek Him, or seek what's best for us, God can reach down and act, even if we didn't really want Him to in the first place.

Jesus' command to "get up and walk" presents some cultural problems. This would have shown that the man was completely and fully healed. However, this encounter takes place on the Sabbath (John 5:9). According to the traditions of the Pharisees, carrying virtually anything, including mats, cots, and pallets was "work," and all "work" was strictly forbidden on the Sabbath day (Leviticus 23:3).

The request is no accident on Jesus' part. This is the phase of His ministry where He begins to deliberately provoke the hard hearts of the people. Several of Jesus' healings will take place on the Sabbath, seemingly to needle the cold-blooded religious leaders (Luke 4:31–37; 14:1–6; Matthew 12:9–14).