John 8:9 "And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and JESUS was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst."
JESUS' WORDs left the Scribes and Pharisees speechless. They thought they had trapped HIM. They presumed that HE could not possibly answer their question and pass their test without indicting HIMSELF, either in the eyes of the Jewish people or the Roman government. Yet CHRIST's response could only have come from the mouth of GOD HIMSELF. "He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her" (v.7 pictured above). How could JESUS utter these WORDs ? It is because HE knew their innermost thoughts and actions. Yes, these religious leaders were certainly hypocrites, and they knew it. They had absolutely nothing to reply to CHRIST's challenge. Convicted of their sin and pretense, they left JESUS' presence, starting from the oldest on down to the youngest.
Even today, we need to realize that unbelievers have a conscience and know what is right and wrong. They may reject the divine Standard of righteousness, but in their heart, they know that GOD exists, and HE will exact judgment upon wickedness (Romans 1:19-25,28,32). What is our responsibility to these individuals who are dead in trespasses and sins ? We must tell them of their need for a SAVIOR and of the wonderful provision of salvation made for them through the finished work of JESUS CHRIST on Calvary's cross. They can reject or disregard our message, but their conscience will be pricked by the HOLY SPIRIT as we present to them the WORD of GOD and ITs glorious message of the Gospel (John 16:7-11 pictured above). We, ourselves, are not able to convict another's conscience; we must allow GOD's SPIRIT and the WORD to do their work of conviction. However, we are certainly responsible to share the good news with them. Are we doing our job ? MDC
Your servant in CHRIST,
Julie
Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.
Used with permission. www.featoday.org
https://www.fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation
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