Definition: And, behold, there was a man which had [his] hand withered. And they asked him, saying, Is it lawful to heal on the sabbath days? that they might accuse him.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this Bible verse together. It’s a really interesting and complex one, and it speaks to a crucial moment in Jesus' ministry. Here’s a simple explanation: The Basic Situation: Jesus is talking about a man who was physically ill (“withered”) – meaning he was suffering from a serious illness or pain. A group of people are questioning whether it’s okay for him to heal on the Sabbath, which is a day off from work and activity. What It Means: "There was a man which had [his] hand withered." – This means he was experiencing intense suffering, perhaps due to a chronic illness or a severe injury. The word "withered" suggests something dying away or losing its strength. “And they asked him, saying, Is it lawful to heal on the sabbath days?” – They are essentially challenging Jesus' ability to help someone who is suffering on a day that’s usually reserved for rest and worship. The Core of the Message: Jesus is highlighting a test or a challenge . He’s showing that He’s not just capable of healing, but He’s also willing to do so when it doesn't disrupt the established rules and order of the day. It’s about demonstrating His authority and being mindful of God’s law. Why is this important? This story demonstrates several key things: Jesus’ Authority: He is showing that He has the power to help people, even when it's not expected or convenient. Respect for Tradition: It shows that Jesus isn’t just concerned with doing good deeds, but also understands and respects the established rules and customs (like Sabbath). He’s setting a precedent by understanding this boundary. In short, the verse is about Jesus being willing to help people in a way that doesn't conflict with God’s laws. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific aspect of this story further? (e.g., its historical context?) Give you a different version of the verse? Answer any questions you have about it?