1. A failed trap (1-4a).

It was no coincidence that the Pharisees, Jesus, and a sick man were all in the same place on the Sabbath. The Pharisees were trying to trap Jesus. They knew he couldn’t resist healing the man on the Sabbath. They made sure the man was right there in front of Jesus and then watched carefully to see what Jesus would do. However, they were no match for our Lord’s wisdom and grace. Jesus saw through their ploy and responded, '’Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath?’' If they said, 'Yes,' then what was the problem? But if they said, 'No,' they would be exposing themselves as hypocrites because everyone knew they would save their own children or animals on the Sabbath if they had to. They had no answer for Jesus’ question.

2. Jesus heals the man (4b-6).

In verse 4b, we read how Jesus did three wonderful things for the man. First, Jesus had compassion on the man and took hold of him. Second, Jesus healed the man. This healing was but a taste of the healing that is available to all who call upon his name. Third, Jesus freed him from his shame and condemnation and sent him off with a new life, a new hope, and a new purpose. Yet, the Pharisees remained silent. They should have repented and sought his mercy.


Application: Lord Jesus, your love is bold and courageous.
One Word: Watch Jesus with spiritual eyes