New Testament
John 5:8
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Jesus encounters a man who had been unable to walk for thirty-eight years.
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
Jesus said to him, "Get up, pick up your mat, and walk."
Jesus saith unto him, Rise, take up thy bed, and walk.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus encounters a man who had been unable to walk for thirty-eight years. He commands the man to get up, take his mat, and walk. This command is significant because it demonstrates Jesus' authority and power to heal. The man, who had been waiting for a miracle, responds to Jesus' words with immediate action. By telling him to pick up his mat, Jesus not only heals him but also instructs him to take responsibility for his own life moving forward. This moment illustrates the transformative power of faith and obedience. The man’s healing is not just physical; it symbolizes a new beginning and the possibility of change. Jesus' words emphasize that faith can lead to miraculous outcomes, and that sometimes, we must take action in response to divine instruction. This encounter highlights the importance of believing in the possibility of healing and restoration, both physically and spiritually.
Related Bible verses
How to apply John 5:8 to your life
When faced with challenges, we can take inspiration from this verse. It encourages us to respond to Jesus' call in our lives, even when it seems daunting. Taking action in faith can lead to significant changes and healing in our own circumstances.
Curated for this public verse page. John Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does John 5:8 mean?
John 5:8 captures a moment where Jesus commands a paralyzed man to rise, take up his mat, and walk. This illustrates Jesus' authority to heal and emphasizes the importance of faith and action in response to divine instruction.
What is the significance of 'pick up your mat' in John 5:8?
The phrase 'pick up your mat' signifies taking responsibility for one's life after healing. It shows that healing is not just physical but also involves a commitment to move forward and embrace new beginnings.
How does John 5:8 relate to faith?
John 5:8 demonstrates that faith can lead to miraculous outcomes. The man's immediate response to Jesus' command shows that taking action in faith is essential for experiencing change and healing.
What themes are present in John 5:8?
Key themes in John 5:8 include healing, faith, obedience, the authority of Jesus, transformation, and new beginnings. These themes illustrate the profound impact of Jesus' words and actions on individuals' lives.

The Book of John
John 1: The Word Made Flesh and the First Disciples
In the beginning is the Word, and the Word is with God, and the Word is God. All things are made by him, and in him is life, and the life is the light of men. The light shines in darkness, and the darkness does not overcome it. John the Baptist is sent from God to bear witness of the Light. He says he is not the Christ but comes to testify of him. The Word is made flesh and dwells among them, full of grace and truth. John bears witness and says that the one coming after him is preferred before him because he is before him.
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