Judged unto Salvation

A Word to the Wise

Good Morning,

The story of Jesus and the woman caught in adultery in John 8:1-11 is often used to warn against  judging another. BUT, is that what we are to take away from this story? In verse 7 Jesus responds, “He who is without sin among you​, let him throw the first stone at her.” In other words, let him be the one that “condemns” her. This is confirmed in verse 10, “He said to her, “Woman, where are those accusers of yours? Has no one condemned you?”

Jesus isn’t saying that nobody is in a position to judge her conduct. Her conduct in and of itself judges her. What no one is morally sound enough to do is condemn her to hell; judge her unto condemnation. Only God who is perfect in all His ways can pronounce and carry out such judgment.

‘What happens next is Jesus showing her mercy. “ And Jesus said to her, “Neither do I condemn you;’ go and sin no more.” (John 8:11) Mercy, because she is guilty of adultery and justice calls for death, but Jesus tells her to repent, (“Go and sin no more.”) 

​We then are to judge another, not unto condemnation, but unto repentance and salvation.

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