LESSONS FOR STONE THROWERS John 7:53-8:11

1. Stone throwers are self righteous

“He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and treated others with contempt: “Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee, standing by himself, prayed thus: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I get.’ But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, a sinner!’ I tell you, this man went down to his house justified, rather than the other. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”” (Luke 18:9–14, ESV)

2. Self-righteous stone throwing only stops as we see ourselves as the one condemned! Christ’s forgiveness of my sin is not based upon my innocence we have all been “caught in the act” Christ’s forgiveness is for all sin even “adultery” Christ’s forgiveness of my sin is the only thing that stands in the way of my death “stoning” - Christ's forgiveness of my sin is because of His sovereign grace only!

3. Only Christ can throw stones of judgment , but instead He offers unmerited grace! “and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God’s righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins. It was to show his righteousness at the present time, so that he might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.” (Romans 3:24–26, ESV)

5. Confrontation starts and ends with humility and compassion never pride and self-righteousness! “Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted.” (Galatians 6:1, ESV)

6. Do not condemn – do not condone!

7. Point people to Jesus for forgiving grace, acceptance and love! “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”” (Matthew 11:28–30, ESV)