What steps can you take to embody Jesus' balance of truth and grace? Entering the Courtyard John 8:10: “Then Jesus straightened up and asked her, ‘Woman, where are your accusers? Has no one condemned you?’” The woman caught in adultery expected rocks; she met Redeemer eyes instead. Jesus upheld the law’s truth—sin really mattered—yet He offered grace that disarmed every accuser. What Truth and Grace Look Like Side-by-Side • Truth: Sin is real, deadly, and must be named (Romans 6:23). • Grace: Mercy triumphs over judgment for the repentant (James 2:13). • Together: “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth” (John 1:14). Steps to Walk in Jesus’ Balance 1. Start with self-examination • Matthew 7:4-5—remove your own plank before addressing another’s speck. • Keeps confrontation honest, not hypocritical. 2. Lead with compassion, not condemnation • Jude 22—“And indeed, have mercy on those who doubt.” • Mercy opens ears to hear the hard words of truth. 3. State the truth plainly • Ephesians 4:25—“Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully.” • Avoid minimizing sin or blurring God’s standards. 4. Offer the way out • 1 John 1:9—confession brings forgiveness and cleansing. • Show how repentance restores fellowship, just as Jesus told the woman, “Go and sin no more” (John 8:11). 5. Extend patient support • Galatians 6:1—“Restore him gently… carry one another’s burdens.” • Help the person establish new patterns; accountability is grace in action. 6. Guard your tone and timing • Proverbs 15:23—“A word spoken in due season, how good it is!” • Truth delivered harshly can harden; grace delivered timely can soften. 7. Stay dependent on the Spirit • 2 Timothy 1:7—power, love, and self-discipline come from Him. • Prayerful reliance prevents either harsh legalism or permissive leniency. Putting It All Together Truth without grace crushes; grace without truth deceives. Combining them the way Jesus did frees the sinner and honors God’s righteousness. Walk humbly, speak honestly, love sacrificially—rocks drop, hearts change, and Christ is seen. |
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