There has always been a strong traditional belief that the 'woman caught in adultery' in John 8 was a prostituted person; it's a theory that makes sense, the men who used her to prove a theological point knew where to find her and knew exactly what she would be doing. In addition there is no man on hand to protest her innocence or offer any protection.This encounter is well known but there is a deeply significant theological point made here - this woman is beyond forgiveness. That is not to say she cannot be forgiven but that Jesus (in his wisdom) says she doesn't need it!
Look at what passes between them:
"Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?"
"No one, sir," she said.
"No one, sir," she said.
"Then neither do I condemn you," Jesus declared. "Go now and leave your life of sin."
She doesn't need forgiveness because Jesus refuses to condemn her!
Someone who is fighting against human trafficking and is especially involved in helping prostituted people really ought to pick this up and run with it!
Along with abused children, prostituted people are the victims of the most gross moral and social injustice - taken (often) against their will and forced (even if only by circumstance) to 'service' the whosoever.
When you and I were thrown at the feet of Jesus he forgave us - hallelujah!
When the prostituted woman was thrown at his feet he refused to condemn her - that's significant!
Who said Jesus doesn't have favourites!
Love and prayers A
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