Stoning, or lapidation, is a method of capital punishment where a group throws stones at a person until the subject dies from blunt trauma. It has been attested as a form of punishment for grave misdeeds since ancient times. It was well known in Israel since the inception of Moses’ Law at about 1 400 BC.
Jesus is approached by the Pharisees to lead such an event with a woman who was caught in the act of adultery. Jesus writes a message in the sand, John 8:7-9 As they stood there asking him questions, he straightened up and said to them, “Whichever one of you has committed no sin may throw the first stone at her.” Then he bent over again and wrote on the ground. When they heard this, they all left, one by one, the older ones first. Jesus was left alone, with the woman still standing there.
Did Jesus condone adultery? Not at all, but what He did do was to level the playing field, opening up the path of forgiveness form sin through himself. Today we enjoy this privilege, it should not be misused or misinterpreted. Jesus sent the woman away, forgiven, with the words, “go sin no more”. Today your conscience can be freed from that one thing you did, that could or has caused you, and or others so much pain. One simple prayer, Lord Jesus, forgive me my sin, and you can be free. The secret to the freedom of the mind is to not continue with the same sin you have been freed of.
Dear Lord, be my fair judge, I pray for forgiveness for that which I have done. Cleanse me with the blood of the Lamb, Jesus Christ, and allow me to be an example to those around me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.