Introduction: A Modern-Day Reflection
- Illustration: The shoplifting mother and the intervention of grace.
- Desperation leads to failure.
- Judgment from others is swift and harsh.
- One man extends grace, transforming her life.
- Transition: This modern scenario reflects the tension of justice and grace in John 8:2-11.
Main Scripture: John 8:2-11
"Let the one among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her."
- Jesus' response transcends legalism and reveals God's heart of mercy and transformation.
Point 1: With God, There Is No Condemnation
- The Scene:
- A woman, caught in adultery, is dragged before Jesus by the Pharisees.
- Mosaic Law calls for death (Lev. 20:10, Deut. 22:22).
- The Pharisees' trap: forcing Jesus to choose between justice (stoning) and mercy (letting her go).
- The Problem:
- Where is the man? The law condemns both parties.
- The Pharisees' hypocrisy exposes their hidden sins.
- Jesus' Response:
- He writes on the ground, likely to focus their attention on their own sins.
- He shifts the focus from the woman’s guilt to their self-righteousness.
- Romans 8:1: "There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus."
Point 2: All Have Sinned
- Jesus’ Words: "Let him who is without sin cast the first stone."
- The crowd realizes their guilt; their consciences convict them.
- From the oldest to the youngest, they walk away.
- The Truth of Sin:
- Romans 3:23: "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God."
- The Pharisees' secret sins disqualify them from passing judgment.
- Application: We are often quick to judge others but blind to our own failings.
Point 3: Go and Sin No More
- Jesus’ Question: "Where are your accusers?"
- The woman replies, “No one, Lord.”
- Jesus responds: "Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more."
- Grace is extended without condoning sin. Jesus provides a path to transformation.
- Application to Us:
- Grace is not a license to sin but a call to repentance and renewal.
- Ephesians 2:8-9: Salvation is by grace through faith, not by works.
- Are we accepting God’s grace? Are we extending it to others?
Application: Lessons from Grace
- Resist Throwing Stones:
- Avoid quick judgments.
- Consider your own flaws before condemning others.
- Offer Redemption, Not Condemnation:
- Extend grace as Jesus did, providing hope and a second chance.
- Practical ways: mentorship, offering support, pointing others to Christ.
- Live as Christ Did:
- Balance truth and grace in your interactions.
- Transform the lives of others by reflecting Christ’s love.
Conclusion: A Call to Grace
- Challenge:
- How can we reflect Christ’s grace in our lives this week?
- Who in our lives needs a moment of grace from us?
- Closing Reflection:
- Just as the old man in the illustration changed the young mother’s life, Jesus’ grace changes ours.
- Let’s embrace His grace and be agents of it in the world.
Main Points and Supporting Scriptures
Point 1: With God, There Is No Condemnation
- John 8:2-11 (Main Text)
- Romans 8:1-2
- Psalm 34:22
Point 2: All Have Sinned
- Romans 3:23-24
- Ecclesiastes 7:20
- Matthew 7:1-2
- James 2:10
Point 3: Go and Sin No More
- Ephesians 2:8-9
- 2 Corinthians 5:17
- John 3:17
- Titus 2:11-12
Application: Lessons from Grace
- Micah 6:8
- Colossians 3:13
- 1 Peter 4:8
- Matthew 5:7
Conclusion: A Call to Grace
- 2 Corinthians 12:9
- Luke 6:36
- Hebrews 4:16