When they kept on questioning Him, He straightened up and said to them, “If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.” John 8:7 (John 7:2-8:11)
It has been a year and a half since Jesus was in Jerusalem. The threats to His life are real, yet He knows His time has not yet come. However, He chose to take His ministry to other parts of Israel. All Jewish males are required to attend The Feast of Tabernacles, the commemoration of the ancient wilderness journey when the Israelites lived in tents. As this celebration approaches Jesus’ own brothers taunt Him and urge Him to make His way back to Jerusalem. As His friends, disciples and family members head toward Jerusalem, Jesus delays, then proceeds privately. There are mixed feelings about Him among the Jewish population, some hate Him and others are convinced He is the Messiah, but He does not wish to incite riots or a circus.
Upon arriving in Jerusalem, Jesus proceeds to teach in the temple where the things He says are so profound even those sent to arrest Him are halted by His truths. When an adulterous woman is brought forward Jesus is invited to condemn her according to the Law of Moses, and join them in her stoning. It was actually a trap, as they already suspected He would act in peace rather than violence and He knew those among them ready to cast stones were guilty of adultery themselves.
Jesus resists condemnation in exchange for compassion…..EVERYTIME! There are those who turn their backs on all He offers, but it didn’t change His message and purpose then and it won’t today. If you are the woman (or man) curled up on the ground, waiting for someone’s death blow of judgement to take you out, stand up and face the Son. He has a better way and He’s holding no rocks. Believe, be saved and put away your shame.
Love,
Gretchen