John 8:7

Those who criticize the failings of others often harbor those same sins. When you point an accusing finger at someone else, remember that three fingers point back at you. The person who judges his fellowman is frequently a hypocrite who prides himself on his own uprightness. Throughout His ministry, Christ faced enemies who sought to trip Him up with the Law of Moses or Roman dictates. A group of elders once brought a woman caught in adultery to Him. They asked if she should be stoned as the Law demanded. They wanted to test Him to find grounds for an accusation. If He set her free, He would violate the Law. If He ordered her death, they would accuse Him before Rome of inciting murder. Jesus stayed silent and wrote on the ground. When they persisted, He straightened up and said: "He who is without sin among you, let him be the first to throw a stone at her." He wrote on the ground again. They left one by one, starting with the older ones. Jesus was left alone with the woman. He set an incredible example of restraint. He was not swayed by their spite or demands. Sometimes a response to an ultimatum requires prayer and patience. We must be ready to give an answer for our hope, but no one has a right to demand our compliance. We do not know exactly what Jesus wrote on the ground. It may have been a list of their sins or simply a moment for Him to seek the Father's wisdom. Regardless, He silenced their accusations. He did not excuse the woman's adultery, as He later commanded her to go and sin no more. By His death, she found forgiveness through faith. No sin is too great to be forgiven except the sin of unbelief. The wages of all sin is death and separation from God. The gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ. He took the punishment we justly deserve. Christ is the only one with the righteous authority to cast the first stone. By grace, He took our penalty upon Himself and clothed us in His righteousness. The power of our old sin nature is broken through faith. We can overcome the world, the flesh, and the devil by the power of the indwelling Spirit. A day is coming when the presence of sin will be gone forever. Jesus asked the woman if anyone remained to condemn her. She called Him Lord, which is only possible through the Holy Spirit. He told her He did not condemn her, but instructed her to sin no more. We are not to act as judge or jury for our fellow man. We can judge false teaching through Scripture and judge ourselves to ensure we walk in truth. We are all sinners saved by grace. May the mind of Christ direct our actions and thoughts so we live in a way that pleases Him. #MoreJoyMinistries