In what ways does John 8:5 highlight the Pharisees' misunderstanding of the law? Setting the Scene: the Accusation John 8:5 – “In the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women. Now what do You say?” • The religious leaders drag a woman “caught in adultery” before Jesus. • Their quotation sounds authoritative, yet their goal is to trap Jesus (v. 6), not to honor God’s law. What the Law Actually Says • Leviticus 20:10 – “Both the adulterer and the adulteress must surely be put to death.” • Deuteronomy 22:22 – “Both the man who lay with her and the woman must die.” • Deuteronomy 19:15 – “Only on the testimony of two or three witnesses shall a charge be established.” The Mosaic legislation demands: – Equal treatment of the man and the woman. – Two or more eyewitnesses. – A judicial process carried out by Israel’s judges or elders (Deuteronomy 22:22–24). Where the Pharisees Went Wrong • Selective prosecution – They produce the woman but leave the guilty man untouched, violating Leviticus 20:10 and Deuteronomy 22:22. • Lack of corroborating witnesses – No witnesses testify; they merely assert, breaking Deuteronomy 19:15. • Misuse of punishment – “Stone such women” ignores that Leviticus 20:10 does not specify stoning for every adultery case; they exaggerate to intensify pressure on Jesus. • Weaponizing the law for personal gain – Rather than purging sin or restoring offenders, they use the law as bait to trap the Messiah (v. 6). • Neglect of mercy and justice – Hosea 6:6 – “For I desire mercy, not sacrifice.” They exalt the penalty while ignoring God’s heart. Deeper Issues Exposed by Jesus’ Response (vv. 6–9) • Confronts their own guilt – “Let him who is without sin among you be the first to cast a stone.” • Returns the focus to the lawgiver – Standing before them is the true Judge (John 5:22); they presume to test Him. • Reveals the law’s purpose – It points all people to their need for grace (Galatians 3:24). Keys for Our Own Hearts Today • God’s commands demand full obedience, not selective application. • Justice and mercy are inseparable (Micah 6:8; Matthew 23:23). • The law condemns every sinner; only Christ can forgive and restore (John 8:10-11; Romans 8:1-4). |
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