Essential
Jesus said to her, "Go, call your husband, and come here." The woman answered him, "I have no husband." Jesus said to her, "You are right in saying, 'I have no husband'; for you have had five husbands, and the one you now have is not your husband. What you have said is true."
John 4:16-18 (ESV)
We often limit our contact with those who live shameful lives. Jesus talked matter of factly to this woman. He did not hide the fact that she was a sinner. He did not soften her sin and her need. Instead, he spoke honestly to her, and invited her to examine a new way of thinking.
Jesus was breaking all the religious rules by talking to a Samaritan woman who was involved in many unhealthy relationships. Jesus saw the problem this woman was facing and proposed a solution.
It is essential that we, too, see the problem, admit it, and offer a solution. But, unfortunately, we often expose the problem, express our disgust, and refuse to provide genuine help.
Jesus was able to teach this woman and provide an example to his disciples and all generations on how to hate the sin while loving the sinner.
John 4:16-18 (ESV)
We often limit our contact with those who live shameful lives. Jesus talked matter of factly to this woman. He did not hide the fact that she was a sinner. He did not soften her sin and her need. Instead, he spoke honestly to her, and invited her to examine a new way of thinking.
Jesus was breaking all the religious rules by talking to a Samaritan woman who was involved in many unhealthy relationships. Jesus saw the problem this woman was facing and proposed a solution.
It is essential that we, too, see the problem, admit it, and offer a solution. But, unfortunately, we often expose the problem, express our disgust, and refuse to provide genuine help.
Jesus was able to teach this woman and provide an example to his disciples and all generations on how to hate the sin while loving the sinner.
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