John Calvin Commentary John 5:10

"So the Jews said unto him that was cured, It is the sabbath, and it is not lawful for thee to take up thy bed." — John 5:10 (ASV)

It is the Sabbath. It was the duty of all to maintain the sanctity of the Sabbath, and, therefore, they justly and properly accuse the man. But when the excuse offered by the man does not satisfy them, they already begin to be at fault; for, when the reason was known, he should have been acquitted.

It was a violation of the Sabbath, as we have said, to carry a burden; but Christ, who laid the burden on his shoulders, discharges him by his own authority. We are therefore taught by this example to avoid every rash judgment, until the reason of each action is fully known.

Whatever contradicts the word of God deserves to be condemned without hesitation. But, as mistakes frequently happen in this matter, we should first inquire modestly and calmly, so that our decision may be sound and sober. For since the Jews, prejudiced by wicked dispositions, do not have the patience to inquire, they shut the door against judgment and moderation. But if they had allowed themselves to be taught, not only would the offense have been removed, but they would also have been led still further, with great advantage, to the knowledge of the Gospel.

We now see how far the Jews were in the wrong. This is because they do not admit a reasonable defense. The defense is that the man who had been cured replies that he does nothing except by the command of the one who had power and authority to command. For, though he did not yet know who Christ was, he was nevertheless convinced that he had been sent by God, because he had received a proof of his divine power. From this proof, he learns that Christ is endowed with authority, so that it must be his duty to obey him.

But it appears worthy of reproof that a miracle turns him aside from obedience to the Law. I confess, indeed, that the argument the man employs in contending with them is not strong enough. However, the others are at fault on two accounts: they neither consider that this is an extraordinary work of God, nor do they suspend their judgment until they have heard a Prophet of God who is furnished with the word.