WORKING WITH OFFENDERS

Jesus simplified theology and religion when he said that there are two great commandments which embody all of the law and prophets.

1. Love God with all your heart, mind and strength
2. Love your neighbour as yourself

From the story of the woman caught in adultery I draw several applications for how I should conduct myself in all restorative relationships.

John 8:3-12

3 The teachers of the law and the Pharisees brought in a woman caught in adultery. They made her stand before the group 4 and said to Jesus, “Teacher, this woman was caught in the act of adultery. 5 In the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women. Now what do you say?” 6 They were using this question as a trap, in order to have a basis for accusing him.

But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with his finger. 7 When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, “If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.” 8 Again he stooped down and wrote on the ground.

9 At this, those who heard began to go away one at a time, the older ones first, until only Jesus was left, with the woman still standing there. 10 Jesus straightened up and asked her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?”

11 “No one, sir,” she said.

“Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin.”

12 When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

PERSONAL APPLICATIONS FROM CHRIST’S EXAMPLE:

1. His interpretation of the Law applied equally to all, not just to the those who were caught.
2. He found a way to bring mercy into the life of the offender.
3. The guilty offender needed an opportunity to find release from shame.
4. He involved the offender in restoration to society by asking her to see the acceptance and release He offered.  She was able to see her freedom to grow into a new reputation.
5. Her opportunity for change was from the starting point of mercy and acceptance, not guilt and punishment.