Pastor Chris continued our series in the Gospel of John, exploring the story of Jesus’ encounter with a woman facing judgment and his challenge to the gathered crowd. We’re reminded of God’s compassionate presence lifting us from shame, and the crucial truth that righteousness is not to be wielded as a weapon.
Text
John 8: 1-11, 13-36
Revelation 21: 1-6, 22-24
Reflection & Practice
Whether our resentments are directed outwardly in bitterness toward others, or internally toward ourselves in shame, we are given choices. Will we pick up the stone in the first place? If doing so, will we make the far more difficult choice of setting it down rather than throwing it with the intent to harm? Consider meditating on Jesus’ parting words to the woman throughout the week, “neither do I condemn you…”
Consider past experiences in which you empathize with the woman facing judgement. How did God (perhaps through the words or actions of others) meet you in those circumstances? Alternatively, when have you been among the gathered crowd seeking punishment, and how might things have been different if you had set your stones down instead?
Worship Set
I Shall Not Be Shaken
Justice Will Roll Down
Jesus Paid It All
Gravity Of Love
It Is Well
House Of God Forever