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This chapter begins with a description of the famous pool of Bethesda; whose waters were medicinal, to cure the first come thereunto, whatsoever disease he had.
Some think this was effected in a natural way, and that the intrails of the sacrificed beasts being washed in this pool, an healing virtue was communicated for curing the palsy, and such cold diseases: as persons that have lame and withered hands, are at this day directed to put them into the belly of a beast newly opened.
But others look upon the healing virtue of this pool to be supernatural and miraculous, because it cured all diseases how great and desperate soever, and this in a moment, or very quickly; and but one at a time; and that one, the first that stepped in only, after an angel had descended and troubled the waters: all which shew, that the healing virtue came not from the goodness of the waters, but that it was a supernatural work.
Some think that the miracle of this pool was granted to the Jews, partly to strengthen them in the true worship of God, and to confirm them in their religious course of sacrificing, against the scoffs of the Romans, who were now their lords; such a virtue being given to that water wherein their sacrifices were wont to be washed.
Learn thence, That means of God's appointment, how improbable and unlikely soever, must not be despised, but awfully admird, and thankfully used; although the way and manner of their working be not understood or comprehended by us.