John Calvin Commentary John 5:9

"And straightway the man was made whole, and took up his bed and walked. Now it was the sabbath on that day." — John 5:9 (ASV)

And it was the Sabbath. Christ was well aware of how great an offense would immediately arise when they saw a man walking along laden with burdens, as the Law expressly forbids carrying any burden whatever on the Sabbath day (Jeremiah 17:21).

But there were two reasons why Christ, disregarding this danger, chose to make such an exhibition: first, that the miracle might be more widely known; and second, that He might create an opportunity and, as it were, open up the way for the beautiful discourse which He delivered immediately afterward. So great was the importance of the knowledge of that miracle, that He found it His duty to despise boldly the offense taken by the people, especially because He had a just defense at hand, by which, though He did not pacify the ungodly, He abundantly refuted their slanders.

Therefore, we ought to observe this rule: though the whole world may kindle into rage, we ought to proclaim the glory of God and celebrate His works, insofar as His glory requires that they be made known. Nor ought we to be uneasy or discouraged, though our labors may not be immediately successful, provided that we keep in view the objective which I have stated, and do not go beyond the limits of our calling.