Albert Barnes Commentary John 5:11

"But he answered them, He that made me whole, the same said unto me, Take up thy bed, and walk." — John 5:11 (ASV)

He that made me whole. The man reasoned correctly. If Jesus had power to work so remarkable a miracle, he had a right to explain the law. If he had conferred so great a favour on him, he had a right to expect obedience; and we may learn that the mercy of God in pardoning our sins, or in bestowing any significant blessing, imposes the obligation to obey him. We should yield obedience to him according to what we know to be his will, whatever may be the opinions of men, or whatever interpretation they may put on the law of God. Our business is a simple, hearty, child-like obedience, let the men of the world say or think of us as they choose.