John 8:1-8 - Lesson #82

Many doubt whether the passage contained in John 7:53-8:11 was actually in the original manuscripts of scripture. Many bibles include a note with this passage saying it is not found in the earlier manuscripts. In addition, several later manuscripts have this passage placed in different locations. However, references to this story are found in early Church writings and, since there is nothing found in the passage which contradicts other scripture, it is believed to be a true story from Jesus' life even if it was not part of scripture.

John 8:1-8
"But Jesus went to the Mount of Olives. Now early in the morning He came again into the temple, and all the people came to Him; and He sat down and taught them. Then the scribes and Pharisees brought to Him a woman caught in adultery. And when they had set her in the midst, they said to Him, 'Teacher, this woman was caught in adultery, in the very act. Now Moses, in the law, commanded us that such should be stoned. But what do You say?' This they said, testing Him, that they might have something of which to accuse Him. But Jesus stooped down and wrote on the ground with His finger, as though He did not hear. So when they continued asking Him, He raised Himself up and said to them, 'He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first.' And again He stooped down and wrote on the ground."

This story represents a climax in the ongoing struggle between Jesus and the Jewish leaders. The Pharisees had consulted with the scribes and believed they had found the perfect way to get Jesus in trouble. This is the only time that the scribes are mentioned in the gospel of John. The scribes were considered to be the experts in the interpretation of the Law. We would consider them the lawyers of their day.

The plan was to bring forward a woman "caught" in adultery and ask Jesus what should be done. The case appeared to be clear, although their failure to also bring forward the man reveals their deception. But their question is regarding the woman, and the Levitical Law is clear; "the adulterer and the adulteress, shall surely be put to death" (Leviticus 20:10). If Jesus went against the Levitical Law He could be accused as not upholding the Law of God and could Himself be condemned. If, on the other hand, Jesus upheld the death sentence, He could be reported to the Romans as carrying out an execution independent of the Roman authority. Either way, Jesus was trapped. The perfect plan!

But Jesus has never been (and never will be) trapped. We're not told what Jesus wrote on the ground - possibly the Ten Commandments, possibly specific sins of those who were gathered, or possibly nothing at all. The point is that when Jesus rose He spoke to the real issue of sin.

When we share our faith there will always be those who try to trap us with questions. But Salvation is not through answers to every question; rather, through the recognition of sin and the forgiveness from God. Let's not become trapped in non-essentials but let's remain focused on the issues of sin and our need for a Savior.