Devotion:
Read John 3:17, 8:1-11.
John 3:16 may be the most well-known verse in all of the Bible. It would be good if the verse after it was just as well-known. It emphasizes that Jesus’ mission was not about condemning people, but about guiding them to a relationship with God.
In most Bibles, there is a note accompanying the story at the beginning of chapter eight, letting us know that some early manuscripts of this Gospel did not include that story. Still, it is included in most Bibles. It certainly fits with what is declared in 3:17. According to the Law (the Scriptures), this woman was supposed to be stoned to death (as well as the man involved). But Jesus grants her mercy, inviting her into a new and different way of living.
Too often, we Christians are known more for what we are against and who we condemn. We do not take time to get to know any of the people we are condemning, choosing instead to focus on “what the Bible says about that.” Certainly, there are times when we need to speak of what the Bible says, but more often, we need to be focused on how we can guide others from where they are into their own personal relationship with God.
To be a follower of Jesus means that first, we know we are loved and forgiven, rather than condemned. To be a messenger of Jesus means we help others know that same assurance.
Personal Worship Option:
Who do you know who most needs to hear that they are not condemned?
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