John 8: Woman Caught in Act of Adultery

Read John chapter 8

Introduction: John 8  starts with the story of a woman caught in adultery, where Jesus showcases his compassion, mercy and wisdom. In this chapter He states a very well known truth, he that is without sin, cast the first stone, this has been quoted by many times throughout history. The chapter also includes conversations between Jesus and the religious leaders, where He once again, states his authority and divinity. Throughout the chapter, Jesus emphasizes the importance of truth, freedom, and His relationship with God the Father.

I. John 8:1-11 – The Woman Caught in Adultery
Jesus is presented with a woman caught in adultery and is asked to pass judgment. Instead of condemning her, he challenges her accusers to be the first one to cast a stone, and forgives the woman.

Other cross reference verses:

• Matthew 7:1-2: Jesus teaches not to judge others.
• Romans 3:23: Everyone has sinned and fallen short of God’s glory.
• 1 John 1:9: God is faithful to forgive our sins if we confess them.
• James 2:13: Mercy triumphs over judgment.

II. John 8:12-20 – Jesus, the Light of the World
Jesus says of Himself, I am light of the world and promises to lead his followers out of darkness. The religious leaders confront Jesus, falsely accusing Him of testifying of Himself alone, of which Jesus states I testify of Myself and the Father.

Other cross reference verses:

• Psalm 27:1: The Lord is our light and salvation.
• Isaiah 9:2: The prophesy of a light shining in the darkness.
• Matthew 5:14: Jesus calls his followers the light of the world.
• 1 John 1:5: God is light and in him is no darkness.

III. John 8:21-30 – Jesus Foretells His Death
Jesus speaks about his upcoming death and the religious leaders of the day do not believe Him.

Other cross reference verses:

• Isaiah 53:3: The prophesy of the suffering servant.
• Matthew 16:21: Jesus predicts his death and resurrection.
• Acts 2:23: Jesus was handed over by God’s set purpose.
• John 12:32: Jesus will draw all people to himself when he is lifted up.

IV. John 8:31-47 – The Truth Will Set You Free
Jesus teaches about the freedom that comes from knowing the truth and being his disciples. We live at a time in year 2024, where the truth is a “hard to find” commodity, we are living in the age of deceit, seek the truth, and truly as Jesus said, it will set you free.

Other cross reference verses:

• Psalm 119:45: The psalmist finds freedom in obeying God’s commands.
• Romans 6:18: Freedom from sin comes from being slaves to righteousness.
• Galatians 5:1: Christ has set us free to live in freedom.
• 2 Corinthians 3:17: Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.

V. John 8:48-59 – Jesus’ Claims About Himself
Jesus makes bold claims about his identity and relationship with God, angering the Jewish leaders. The religious leaders of that day felt they had the market cornered on “all things God”, and this is a large part of the reason there was so much conflict between them and Jesus. He was God, and he called them out on everything they believed.

Other cross reference verses:

• Exodus 3:14: God reveals himself as “I AM” to Moses.
• John 10:30: Jesus claims unity with the Father.
• Colossians 1:15: Jesus is the image of the invisible God.
• Hebrews 1:3: Jesus reflects God’s glory and represents his nature.

Conclusion: In John 8, we see Jesus work His was through many criticisms and teachings with wisdom and authority. He offers forgiveness to the sinner, declares himself the light that overcomes darkness, predicts his sacrificial death, points out the true power of truth, and teaches about His divine identity. The chapter challenges the believer to recognize our own need for grace, to follow Jesus as the guiding light, to embrace the freedom found in the truth, and to acknowledge Jesus’ unique relationship with God the Father.