The same dream keeps coming back to the preacher: the wife whose heart was always his turns cold and says she could leave, and he wakes at three in the morning with his heart pounding. Betrayal and love gone cold are where this story begins, as a woman caught in adultery is dragged into the temple (John 8). But more sins than hers are on display, because her accusers use her just as instrumentally and betray the heart of the law, which was meant to protect the community. Listen and ask whether in that scene you are standing with a stone in your hand or at the feet of Jesus.
Discussion questions
For your small group or for personal reflection after the sermon.
- What motives drove the religious leaders who brought the woman to Jesus (John 8:1-11), and what in their actions shows they were not really after justice?
- Jesus says, "Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone." How do these words uphold the Law while also revealing the heart of God?
- The speaker compared sin to a boy who sees the no diving sign at the pool but does not grasp the danger. Where in your life do you know the warning but still take its seriousness lightly?
- The sermon said that obeying rules without loving the Father's heart is a profound misunderstanding. How can you tell when your faith is turning into mere rule keeping?
- The woman did not slip back into the crowd but stayed at the feet of Jesus. What makes you want to hide from God and others instead of bringing your guilt to Jesus?
- Jesus says, "Neither do I condemn you. Go now and leave your life of sin." What concrete step toward Jesus can you take this week with a sin you find hard to let go of?
