In the biblical context, the term "crippled" refers to individuals who are physically disabled or impaired, often unable to walk or move freely. The Bible addresses the condition of the crippled in various passages, highlighting both the physical and spiritual dimensions of their experiences.

Old Testament References

The Old Testament contains several references to individuals who are crippled, often in the context of God's laws and the community's responsibility towards them. Leviticus 21:18, for example, outlines the physical requirements for priests, stating, "No man who has any defect may approach: no man who is blind, lame, disfigured, or deformed." This reflects the emphasis on physical wholeness in the priestly service, yet it also underscores the broader societal view of physical impairments.

In 2 Samuel 9, we encounter Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan and grandson of King Saul, who was crippled in both feet. Despite his condition, King David showed kindness to Mephibosheth for the sake of his father Jonathan, restoring to him the land of Saul and allowing him to eat at the king's table (2 Samuel 9:7). This narrative illustrates the themes of covenant loyalty and grace extended to those who are marginalized.

New Testament References

The New Testament presents a transformative view of the crippled, particularly through the ministry of Jesus Christ. Jesus' healing of the crippled is a testament to His divine authority and compassion. In Matthew 15:30-31, it is recorded, "Large crowds came to Him, bringing the lame, the blind, the crippled, the mute, and many others, and laid them at His feet; and He healed them. The crowd was amazed when they saw the mute speaking, the crippled restored, the lame walking, and the blind seeing. And they glorified the God of Israel."

One of the most notable healings is found in John 5:1-9, where Jesus heals a man who had been an invalid for thirty-eight years at the Pool of Bethesda. Jesus asks the man, "Do you want to get well?" (John 5:6), and upon the man's affirmative response, Jesus commands him to "Get up, pick up your mat, and walk" (John 5:8). This miracle not only restores the man's physical ability but also serves as a sign of Jesus' power to bring spiritual renewal.

In Acts 3:1-10, Peter and John heal a man who was lame from birth at the temple gate called Beautiful. Peter declares, "In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, get up and walk!" (Acts 3:6). The man is immediately healed, and his response is one of joy and praise, as he enters the temple courts walking and leaping.

Theological Implications

The healing of the crippled in the New Testament is emblematic of the broader redemptive work of Christ. It signifies the breaking in of God's kingdom, where physical and spiritual restoration is made possible through faith in Jesus. The miracles performed by Jesus and the apostles serve as a foretaste of the ultimate restoration that will occur in the new creation, where there will be no more pain or disability.

Furthermore, the biblical narrative emphasizes the inherent dignity and worth of every individual, regardless of physical condition. The compassion shown by Jesus and His followers towards the crippled challenges societal norms and calls believers to extend love and care to those who are marginalized or suffering.

In summary, the biblical portrayal of the crippled encompasses both the physical healing and the spiritual renewal offered through Christ, reflecting the holistic nature of God's salvation plan.