What does John 8:4 reveal about the Pharisees' understanding of the law? The moment in focus – John 8:4 “and said, ‘Teacher, this woman was caught in the act of adultery.’” What their words tell us about their view of God’s law • They assume Scripture is authoritative. By quoting the facts of the case to Jesus, they appeal to the law’s clear prohibition of adultery (Leviticus 20:10; Deuteronomy 22:22). • They acknowledge the need for eyewitnesses. The phrase “caught in the act” signals compliance with Deuteronomy 19:15, which requires at least two witnesses. • Yet they handle the law selectively. Only the woman is produced; the man, equally guilty under the same passages, is conspicuously absent—evidence of partiality forbidden in Exodus 23:2–3. • Their motive is prosecutorial, not pastoral. By thrusting the woman before Jesus rather than quietly presenting the case to the proper judges (Deuteronomy 17:8–9), they show more interest in trapping Him (John 8:6) than in restoring sinners (cf. Zechariah 7:9–10). • They treat the law as a tool for public humiliation. Announcing her sin in a crowded setting exploits the law for spectacle, contradicting the spirit of Leviticus 19:17–18, which pairs rebuke with love. • Their approach is legalistic, overlooking mercy. Hosea 6:6 (“I desire mercy, not sacrifice”) reveals the heart of God they miss by focusing solely on punishment. A balanced grasp of the same law • God’s statutes are righteous, but they are given to protect both justice and compassion (Psalm 19:7–9). • The full law demands impartiality, due process, and care for the vulnerable—principles the Pharisees ignore (Deuteronomy 16:19; Proverbs 31:8–9). • Jesus fulfills the law perfectly (Matthew 5:17), showing how truth and grace can meet (John 1:17). Take-home principles • Knowing a command is not enough; applying it requires the whole counsel of God. • Selective enforcement betrays a heart problem, not a legal one. • Scripture’s purpose is never to weaponize righteousness but to lead sinners to repentance and life (2 Timothy 3:16; Romans 2:4). |
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