Expository Thoughts On John - JOHN 8:1-11
J.C. Ryle expounds on John 8:1-11 to reveal Jesus' merciful approach to sin, emphasizing forgiveness without condemnation and the call to repentance.
In this expository sermon on John 8:1-11, J.C. Ryle explores the profound encounter between Jesus, a woman caught in adultery, and her accusers. Ryle highlights Jesus’ merciful yet just response, emphasizing the balance between forgiveness and the call to a holy life. This message challenges believers to reflect on their own attitudes toward judgment and grace.
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A Woman Caught in Adultery
But Jesus went to the Mount of Olives. Early in the morning he came to the temple courts again. All the people came to him, and he sat down and began to teach them. The experts in the law and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught committing adultery. They made her stand in front of them and said to Jesus, "Teacher, this woman was caught in the very act of adultery. In the law Moses commanded us to stone to death such women. What then do you say?" (Now they were asking this in an attempt to trap him, so that they could bring charges against him.) Jesus bent down and wrote on the ground with his finger. When they persisted in asking him, he stood up straight and replied, "Whoever among you is guiltless may be the first to throw a stone at her." Then he bent over again and wrote on the ground.
Now when they heard this, they began to drift away one at a time, starting with the older ones, until Jesus was left alone with the woman standing before him. Jesus straightened up and said to her, "Woman, where are they? Did no one condemn you?" She replied, "No one, Lord." And Jesus said, "I do not condemn you either. Go, and from now on do not sin any more."
The narrative which begins the eighth chapter of John\
Sermon Outline
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I. The Setting and Accusation
- Jesus teaching in the temple courts
- Pharisees bring a woman caught in adultery
- Their attempt to trap Jesus with the Law
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II. Jesus’ Response to the Accusers
- Jesus writes on the ground
- Challenges the guiltless to cast the first stone
- Accusers depart one by one
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III. Jesus’ Mercy Toward the Woman
- No condemnation from Jesus
- Calls her to sin no more
- Demonstrates grace and calls for repentance
Key Quotes
“Whoever among you is guiltless may be the first to throw a stone at her.” — J.C. Ryle
“I do not condemn you either. Go, and from now on do not sin any more.” — J.C. Ryle
“Jesus’ mercy does not excuse sin but calls for repentance and transformation.” — J.C. Ryle
Application Points
- Avoid self-righteous judgment and remember your own need for grace.
- Extend forgiveness to others as Jesus forgives you.
- Commit to turning away from sin and living a transformed life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the Pharisees bring the woman to Jesus?
They intended to trap Jesus by forcing him to choose between upholding the Law of Moses or showing mercy.
What is the significance of Jesus writing on the ground?
Though the exact meaning is unclear, it shows Jesus’ calm and deliberate approach, defusing the situation.
What does Jesus mean by 'He who is without sin cast the first stone'?
Jesus highlights the universal sinfulness of humanity, warning against self-righteous judgment.
How does this passage demonstrate Jesus’ attitude toward sin?
Jesus shows mercy without condoning sin, offering forgiveness and urging a changed life.
What lesson should believers take from this story?
Believers should avoid harsh judgment, extend grace, and pursue holiness.