The man in John 5:5 had been an invalid for "thirty-eight years." That's a very specific--and not round--number. Could the number simply indicate a long duration of affliction? Sure. Could the number connect to the Old Testament? Hmm. The span of thirty-eight years is used in the Old Testament one time, and it refers to the period of time of Israel's wandering in the wilderness (Deut. 2:14). Commentators on John seem inclined against any symbolism or OT connection. Carson, Klink, Keddie, Osborne (and others) all say no. But...

Forthcoming...

Also forthcoming.