Features Pricing Bible Library Churches About Sign in Begin

John 5:7

The impotent man answered him, Sir, I have no man, when the water is troubled, to put me into the pool: but while I am coming, another steppeth down before me.

John 5:7 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse from the Book of John, we find a man who had been suffering from an infirmity for thirty-eight years. He explains to Jesus that he has no one to help him into the pool when the water is troubled, and as he tries to make his way there, someone else always beats him to it. This man's response reflects the frustration and despair he must have felt after years of being unable to find healing. The story serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by those who are marginalized or overlooked in society, and highlights the importance of compassion and empathy towards those who are struggling. Ultimately, this verse shows the power of Jesus' healing and the hope that he brings to those who are in need.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the Gospel of John, the impotent man laments to Jesus that he has no one to help him into the pool when the waters are troubled. The man's physical ailment prevents him from being able to move quickly, and he always gets passed over by others who are more agile. This situation highlights the man's helplessness and his need for assistance in order to receive healing. From a theological perspective, this passage can be interpreted as a lesson in the importance of community and interdependence. Just as the impotent man needed someone to help him, we are also called to support and lift up our brothers and sisters in Christ who may be struggling or in need. This verse serves as a reminder of the value of offering a helping hand to those who may not be able to help themselves.

John 5:7 in other translations

American Standard Version

The sick man answered him, Sir, I have no man, when the water is troubled, to put me into the pool: but while I am coming, another steppeth down before me.

World English Bible

The sick man answered him, “Sir, I have no one to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up, but while I’m coming, another steps down before me.”

Douay-Rheims

The infirm man answered him: Sir, I have no man, when the water is troubled, to put me into the pond. For whilst I am coming, another goeth down before me.

Geneva Bible (1599)

The sicke man answered him, Sir, I haue no man, when the water is troubled, to put me into the poole: but while I am comming, another steppeth downe before me.