Restoration, Not Condemnation

John 8:10-11 When Jesus had raised Himself up and saw no one but the woman, He said to her, “Woman, where are those accusers of yours? Has no one condemned you?” She said, “No one, Lord.” And Jesus said to her, “Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more.”

The woman's accusers dispersed after Jesus exposed them for their hypocrisy. What is interesting about this incident is that Jesus spent more time dealing with the accusers than He did dealing with the accused. When the Lord finally turns His attention the this woman, He turns to her with love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness. However, He also holds her accountable when He tells her to go and sin no more. Although He was the only One who was truly in a place to judge her, He chose mercy, grace, and restoration. The ones who were just as guilty of sin as she was, were ready to have her judged, condemned, and stoned. Sadly, this is still the case far too often today. Instead of showing the same grace and mercy that we are shown every single day, by God Himself; we often choose to be judge and jury, and pronounce condemnation. In the process, we miss an opportunity to do what is most often in the heart of God when it comes to dealing with those who stumble and find themselves entangled in sin. Instead of helping them to be loosed and restored, we condemn and cause further pain by rubbing salt in the wound. Jesus made it clear that He came not to judge, but to seek and save those who are lost. Do not get me wrong; a day is coming when the Savior will return, not with mercy and grace, but with power and judgment. Nonetheless, for the time being, let us be more like Jesus, by holding each other accountable, but for the purpose of restoration, not condemnation.

Today, God extends an invitation to you to accept His free gift of salvation (Romans 6:23). Will you accept it? Anyone who calls on Jesus, by faith, in repentance, confessing your sins, will receive eternal life. Do not put off calling on Him, and receive His free gift of salvation today (Romans 10:13).