There are differences of opinion about whether this passage was included in the earliest manuscripts. Many people focus on Jesus’ interaction with the woman, considering it the main storyline.  With that in mind, some feel the story doesn’t follow what has appeared to be John’s approach. However, when we look at Jesus’ interaction with the religious leaders as the main idea, the passage fits very well with what we’ve been learning so far.  

We see how the religious leaders have already been resistant of Jesus (see John 5:16, 18 and John 7: 19, 25, 30, 32, 43.) In this scenario, they are trying to trip Him up again, putting Jesus into a nearly no-win situation based on both Jewish and Roman law (for one example, the man involved should’ve been brought forward, too.)

But Jesus doesn’t succumb to it.  He instead takes a provocative (not rude) approach by asking questions, making them think, and pausing, and the leaders eventually drop their stones and walk away.

All along in the book of John, God has been enlightening people to Jesus.  Some believe and receive, and others resist and rebel.  Enlightenment isn’t a one-time event – it comes in incremental steps.  And some continue to resist even after becoming more enlightened about Jesus?

What can we take away from this?

1. Jesus did not condemn the woman, but He also did not condone her sin.

We can love people while also humbly acknowledging sin that may exist in our lives and theirs.  We can encourage one another to live in alignment with Jesus and His principles.

2. The True Light enlightens ALL, even those who still resist.  He treats those people with grace, as He did these religious leaders.  

We can follow this example by treating those who don’t believe, or don’t agree with us on all things, with grace.

3. The leaders expected Jesus to respond in a specific way. He didn’t, and instead practice a provocative pause as part of His dealings with them. He will also practice the provocative pause with us.  

If you are in a period of a pause, where you aren’t getting clear direction from the Lord, consider that He is inviting you to lean in and depend on Him more.

Reflection Prompters

1. How have you seen God put Himself on display recently?

2. Have you experienced a “provocative pause” with the Lord? Reflect on that experience.

3. Jesus often got people to resolve things on their own by asking questions instead of telling them what to do.   Think about a situation in your life in which you are quick to give advice. How could you change your approach with that person, and encourage them in working through things with the Lord?

4. How do you think the woman felt at this interaction? How about the religious leaders upon its completion?

5.  Truths to reflect upon, write out, meditate on and/or pray over, inspired by this week’s service and message:

• I depend on You, Jesus.
• I do not need to condemn people while also not condoning some of their actions.
• Enlightenment comes in incremental steps.
• God is putting Himself on display.
• I may be more helpful encouraging people by using questions than giving advice.