“Do Not Condemn” By Kirk Hunt
When Jesus had raised Himself up and saw no one but the woman, He said to her, “Woman, where are those accusers of yours? Has no one condemned you?”
She said, “No one, Lord.”
And Jesus said to her, “Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more.”
John 8:10–11 NKJV
Please also read John 8:3-12
Why have modern Christians become so ready to condemn people? According to Jesus, we are called to save, not destroy, souls (Luke 9:51–56 NKJV). Christians should always be known to dispense grace and reconciliation.
Grace and reconciliation are not the same thing as indulgence or permissiveness. Jesus did not approve of the adulteress’ error, and He commanded her not to sin anymore. Still, He let her go back to her life, prayerfully convicted to make better choices in the future.
Please understand these definitions (Romans 8:1–2): Conviction is different from condemnation.
• Conviction is the act or condition of “convincing someone of error.”
• Condemnation is the act or condition of “assigning (especially final) punishment.”
Real strength, especially among Christians, is not harsh or heartless. It is not strength or righteousness to lash, batter or destroy anyone. The heart of Christ is to save the lost, not destroy them.
Jesus loves all of His children. Do you love all of His children? Consider how God would react to those who hate and attempt to destroy you?
Are you busy convincing others of the need for Christ’s salvation or just trying to punish folks? Even if they fight and slash at you, you are commanded to love them (1 John 4:20). Jesus rebuked His Disciples for wanting to destroy. Are you really a disciple of His?
Think: Do I really understand conviction is not the same thing as condemnation?
Pray: “Lord, help me to save not destroy souls.”
Copyright © December 2017, Kirk Hunt
This devotional is brought to you courtesy of CadreMen Press. You can purchase a copy of Blessed and Blessing: Devotionals For Gospel Champions from your favorite bookseller or directly from CadreMen Press.