The aim of this paper is to suggest the existence of creative interaction between biblical texts, medieval patristic exegesis, Orthodox Church hymns and the modern sermon in Greek through a case study of the cure at the pool of Bethesda, with particular focus on the short opening dialogue between Jesus and the paralytic man (John 5:6-8). This axis of interaction includes both conceptual elements that the preaching exploits over time, i.e. pure Theology, and specific language choices that characterize a context with timeless dynamics as well. In the analysis we focus on some parameters of pragmatics, such as questions and politeness, elements that offer a broader perspective on how preachers today participate in a dialogue with their tradition by using a unique text type, the sermon.