Word Up – John 8
“They put her front of the crowd.”
John 8:3b (NLT)
In our media driven instant message society news stretches from continent to continent faster than we can read the words in this sentence. Our actions, good and bad are known instantly.
Jesus was teaching and was interrupted with some instant news, hot-off-the press of The Jerusalem Chronicles: She was caught in the act of adultery. Not only was the woman caught in the act of her private sin but she was being publicly shamed. Her accusers stood, poised with stones ready to convict and execute punishment at Jesus’ word. Much to their surprise Jesus didn’t speak any words. He knelt before them and wrote in the sand. One by one the accuser
Every day we are given countless opportunities to condemn, convict, and execute judgement in the town square of social media. Accusers bring private news to the public forums of Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Without pause, we grab our stones and respond exactly like the Pharisees when instead we should respond like Jesus.
Rather than…
- Rather than ranting over mainstream media news reports, rave of the good news of Jesus Christ
- Rather than sharing someone’s hurt and humiliation, share the hope of scripture that comes from God’s Word
- Rather than posting something negative, post of the power of the saving grace of God through Jesus Christ
Reflection Questions:
Is my first response to spread social media scandals or stop them?
What is God teaching you through today’s text?