What does it mean to be spiritually impotent?

Spiritual impotence refers to the state of being unable to attain righteousness or healing through one's efforts due to the inherent sinfulness of man. In the context of John 5, the impotent man's long wait at the pool symbolizes humanity's helplessness in achieving salvation or spiritual wholeness without divine intervention. The man's excuses reveal a heart that is naturally inclined to shift blame rather than recognize its desperate state. Jesus’ command to him— 'rise, take up thy bed'—underscores that salvation is initiated by divine grace rather than human merit. Thus, spiritual impotence serves to highlight the necessity of Christ's redemptive work, illustrating that only through His power can we be made whole.