Our daughter, Cathy, recently acquired an interest in the family genealogy. I know little about my family background, but when she started asking questions, I realized I knew less than I thought.
For instance, in the past it is obvious that folks were quick to name the new child out of the family history of the past. I was born at my grand-parents home and registered at the local post-office. I think it is right because there were so many Edwards and Thomas’s in the family. On my mother’s side it was a little confusing because there are still differences of opinion. Bless their hearts, I am here and one day I will confuse the list even more.
In reading the genealogy of the Lord Jesus, you cannot help but notice that there are four women mentioned, Tamar, Rahab, Ruth and Bathsheba. While some of their backgrounds were not squeaky clean, God still used them, and they are mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus.
Before we start throwing rocks or wielding a machete, let us realize that none of us is “without sin”. Jesus said to those intent on destroying the life of a prostitute that “He who is without sin among you, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.” (John 8) When every one of the crowd had departed, Jesus asked her, “Woman, where are they? Did no one condemn you?” NO ONE, Lord! I do not condemn you either. Go. From now on sin no more.” The next verse explains exactly what had taken place… “I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life.” In that moment the woman saw the LIGHT. That person, Jesus illuminated her need, and His willingness to accept her unconditionally as His follower.
We need to refresh our thinking about the power of Christ to not only forgive her in totality, but to instruct her to “sin no more!”
If one reads further in the passage, we discover how Jesus rebukes those involved and says: “You judge according to the flesh; I am not judging anyone.” Still further: “You are from below, I am from above; you are of this world, I am not of this world. Therefore I said to you that you will die in you sins; for unless you believe that I am He, you will die in your sins.”
For further study, take a good look at the four women that God chose to use and who were listed in the genealogy of Jesus! God forgives in totality, and then uses us as He sees fit!
-Ted
ETCetera 