John 8:5

“You obviously know what Moses says in the law?” the accusers hone in. “This woman is to be summarily stoned to death as punishment for her shameful act. But wait…” they pause as they set the trap. “What is your opinion?” John 8:5 EFP 

We are condemned no matter what. The law, as defined is Leviticus 20:10 is pretty clear. Death. Romans 6:23 is equally succinct. Death. The woman does not have a leg to stand on. She is guilty, and as a result her fate is sealed. Just like me.

The woman may not have had a case, but she certainly could have raised a stink and made life more than a bit uncomfortable for many of the men judging her. For one, the passage in the Book of Leviticus specifically calls for both adulterer and adulteress to be brought for punishment. The man has mysteriously vanished since being caught in the very act, since it “takes two to tango.” It honestly sound like a set-up and the woman is the dupe in this sanctimonious sting. Satan is the master of sly. None of us has escaped his sin-tinged lures in life.

But here comes the unexpected. They ask Jesus what he thinks. They probably should have thought that question out more carefully. I am certain they thought they had him trapped regardless of his answer. They could not see an escape for him—it was either Roman of Jewish law that would condemn him. The demons are cackling. The scribes and Pharisees are smirking. The crowd smells blood. The universe holds its breath. The law interpreters and the law-giver are about to go toe to toe. It is my life is on the line, together with the fallen woman.