The teachers of the law and the Pharisees brought in a woman caught in adultery. They made her stand before the group …
- John 8:3

Can you imagine being this woman?

She’s pulled in front of a huge crowd and accused of doing something that she actually did. Perhaps a wave of shame swept over her as her faced flushed red. This would have been the most terrifying, visceral moment in her life. She might have wanted to run and hide, but the accusing authorities held her fast.

She would have known the religious law, though the Roman occupying force would have kept her Jewish community from often enforcing it. Adultery in her community could be a capital offence. She may not survive this day.

Her accusers were bringing her to Jesus. They would ask this Jesus what should be done with her. For this woman, the “Who is this Jesus?” Question would be a matter of life and death.

The question of Jesus identity, priorities and character comes to us as more than a philosophical or theological question. Christians believe that our eternal destinies hang on the answer to this question.

If Jesus is cruel or simply just, then we will be in deep trouble when we’re brought before him and exposed as genuine sinners. All of our hopes hang on Jesus being not only just but also forgiving.

Today, we want to ask you: Who do you NEED Jesus to be? How does your answer to the “Who is this Jesus?” Question shape your hopes, fears, and actions?