Sexual sin was around in Jesus's day just like it is today. What did Jesus have to say about it? A story from John 8 gives us a clue.
Talking Points:
- First, Jesus paused. He didn’t jump to conclusions and get judgmental. That’s a good example for us today when we are confronted with someone’s sexual sin. John 8:1-11
- Second, Jesus addressed the accusers first. Jesus knew that they had their own sin to deal with, and he wanted them to be aware of it. Maybe he was writing the names of their mistresses in the sand.
- Third, Jesus didn’t condemn her outright. He didn’t start throwing stones – or scripture arrows – at her. He had a tender heart toward her.
- Fourth, Jesus got personal with her. He didn’t try to address this touchy issue in public. He waited until the crowd was gone, and then he talked about it.
- Fifth, Jesus didn’t condone her sin. Jesus wasn’t afraid to call out her sin and challenge her to start living to honor God.
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- List out the five ways Jesus dealt with sexual sin in John 8. What are some other observations you can draw from the text?
- Make a list of the sexual sins in society today. Have they changed since Jesus’ day? Explain.
- What do you think Jesus wrote on the ground when he paused?
- What do you think happened to this woman when she left?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
