Neither Do I Condemn You
Rev. Charles Oppong-Poku | May 2, 2024 | John 8:1-11
KEY VERSE:
10 Jesus straightened up and asked her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” 11 “No one, sir,” she said. “Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin." John 8:10-11 (NIV)
MESSAGE:
In this powerful encounter between Jesus and the woman caught in adultery, we witness the profound depth of Jesus' mercy, love, grace, and forgiveness. The Pharisees sought to trap Jesus by presenting a woman who had sinned, hoping to force him into a dilemma. They wanted to test his commitment to the law of Moses, which prescribed stoning for such offences. However, Jesus responded with wisdom and compassion, revealing a deeper understanding of justice and mercy.
To the Pharisees, the woman was a sinner deserving of punishment. But to Jesus, she was a soul needing love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness. Jesus did not ignore her sin but acknowledged it while offering her forgiveness and a new way of life. This illustrates the delicate balance between justice and mercy that Jesus embodies. Jesus' response to the Pharisees, inviting those without sin to cast the first stone, revealed their hypocrisy and sinfulness. One by one, they walked away, leaving only Jesus and the woman. Instead of condemning her, Jesus offered her forgiveness and a fresh start. He instructed her to repent and cease her sinful behaviour. He gave her hope that her life could go on in freedom from sexual sin. He offered her words of encouragement to counteract the shame that might potentially engulf her life in the future.
As we reflect on this story, we are reminded of our sinfulness and the need for God's mercy and forgiveness in our lives. Just as Jesus did not condemn the woman, we are called to treat others with the same grace, love, mercy, and forgiveness Christ has shown us. May we imitate Christ in our lives, offering forgiveness and acceptance to all, just as he has done for us.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
The Church of Jesus Christ needs a fresh dose of the grace of God which makes it possible for us both to feel accepted and to be accepting. How can you become more aware of the Christ who does not condemn you, but accept you as you are? And how can you follow His example and become more gracious, forgiving, and accepting of one another?
PRAYER:
Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for your mercy and grace. Help me to show the same compassion to others that you have shown to me. Teach me to let go of condemnation and embrace forgiveness, both for myself and for those around me. May your love guide my actions and attitudes, leading me to live a life that honours you. Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
DAILY word study: CONDEMNED The Greek word translated as “condemned” is κατακρίνω (katakrinō), which means to judge against, or to pronounce judgment upon. This term carries a legal connotation, implying a verdict of guilt and the imposition of punishment.
In the context of John 8:10-11, Jesus does not issue a legal judgment against the woman despite the law of Moses that would condemn her to death for adultery. Instead, He releases her from the expected legal condemnation and encourages her to live a transformed life.
In this passage, we see the tension between law and grace. Jesus upholds the law by not dismissing her sin but extends grace by sparing her from condemnation. It’s a powerful example of how Jesus prioritizes mercy and redemption over strict legalism.
Reflections: How can we balance justice and compassion in our own lives, following the example set by Jesus in this passage?
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