The Sunday Morning Television talk shows are notorious for setting up conservative minded individuals. Prior to an invite, politicians are hopeful for a good showing, looking to get their name out on a national stage. Yet, when the questions begin, many feel like they are on trial, attacked and bombarded for possessing Bible based beliefs.
They were using this question as a trap, in order to have a basis for accusing him. But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with his finger, John 8:6.
This atmosphere was normal for Jesus during the first century. Whenever He interacted with Pharisees, religious leaders and teachers of the Torah, Jesus often endured a game of gotcha, waiting for Him to stumble and fall. On one occasion Jewish officials attempted to use a woman caught in adultery as a trap. Unlike most debates, Jesus uses a different strategy, ignoring their questions by choosing to write words in the sand.
When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her,” John 8:7.
The word chosen to describe writing by John, a disciple of Jesus, is not your typical verb. The context in this passage refers to “writing down the record.” Thus, scholars assume that Jesus begins to write down the secret sins of these religious leaders in the sand. Upon hearing Jesus’ request in verse 7, one by one the crowd of accusers quietly goes back to their homes. When Jesus finished writing, he appears surprised by the honesty of these Jews. However, his last words to this woman are poignant, “go now and leave your life of sin.” These words are just as relative today, a call to heed and obey. Go and do likewise.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 