How do you respond when tensions are high and the volume of voices even higher?
“With gentleness” might not be your first response. It’s certainly not always mine! Yet that’s exactly how Jesus responded to the crowd who was literally ready to kill the woman caught in adultery.
The Pharisees had literally drug her out to the public temple, where she awaited the dreaded fate of stoning. It was there she first met Jesus.
Jesus saw more than just the sin and the sinner. Jesus knew the intent of the Pharisees. He knew they were setting a trap for Him. He knew their hearts lacked compassion for the sinner. That knowledge had to hurt, and stir up anger.
Yet Jesus didn’t respond in frustration or biting words. His actions were disarming. His reply diffused the situation. He affirmed the law and also their right to carry it out, with one caveat. “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” (John 8:8 NIV)
It wasn’t snide sarcasm. It was a simple instruction. His words didn’t incite a rebellion. They started a personal reflection.
And one by one, each slowly left the scene- unable in good conscience to throw the first stone. (verse 9).
Jesus had might and power. He could have called thousands of angels to fight for Him.
But He didn’t.
He knew He didn’t need to. He knew operating out of love and gentleness would ultimately accomplish His goal: help the accusers examine their hearts. To realize there was more to the law than letters.
When the crowd of accusers dispersed, He dealt with the sinner. After sparing her life, (He surely could have thrown the first stone), He instructed her, “Go now and leave your life of sin.” (John 8:11 NIV)
His actions illustrated the principles of 2 Timothy 2:24-25.
Be kind to everyone (even those setting a trap for you).
Be able to teach (Don’t alienate with your attitude).
Correct opponents with gentleness.
God’s gentleness brings greatness. Restoration. Life. (Psalm 18:35)
Galatians 5:22-23 lists the Fruit of the Spirit, of which gentleness is one, and, that against these things there is no law.
Contrary to culture, we can’t be too gentle. We don’t need to limit the amount of our gentleness.
1 Timothy 6:11-12 tells me I must pursue gentleness.
Maybe you, like I, struggle with this idea. One on hand, I yearn to display that gentle Spirit God is refining in me. Yet, on the other hand, sometimes the world is harsh. It will gladly knock down and run over gentle souls.
Gentleness does not equal timidity. Jesus was not acting gently, yet mentally wringing His hands, wondering what to do if…
He knew what was right. He was in control of His thoughts and emotions and responses. No matter how others spoke or reacted. He knew what His attitude, words and actions would be. They would be based in truth, love and gentleness.
I know I need to work on this as my go-to response. Maybe you do too? Let’s ask Him for help with just that.
Prayer: Dear Lord, You see.
You hear.
You know.
You know what attitudes, words, and actions I’ll encounter today. Please help me respond in gentleness, as Jesus did. Help me prioritize time with You so the Holy Spirit can work out gentleness in me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.