January 13, 1999

LIFE & WORK:
Restoration available
after experiencing abortion
___ John 7:53-8:11; James 5:16-20
___By Thomas Lea
___Southwestern Seminary
___Few people have disowned the Lord more emphatically than Peter in his three denials (Matthew 26:69-75). Few Christians have received a more dramatic restoration to usefulness than Peter in John 21:15-19. Jesus specializes in taking people who have broken his laws and offering forgiveness and acceptance.
___Forgiveness and acceptance are special blessings for people who have experienced abortion. Some Christian women who undergo abortions wrestle with guilt over their actions. A previous abortion can undermine the relationship between a husband and wife. Jesus offers spiritual healing to those wounded by the practice of abortion. Five principles in today's lesson provide assistance for us to offer restoration to those involved in abortion:
___ View individuals as persons, not as objects (John 8:1-6a). The scribes and Pharisees wanted to bring Jesus into conflict with either the religious or civil authorities. They planned to use the woman caught in adultery to trap Jesus. He rejected their approach and accepted her as a person of worth, not as an object for rejection.
___Most New Testament versions include notes indicating that John 7:53-8:11 is omitted from early manuscripts of the New Testament. We have good reason to believe the story presents accurate information about Jesus.
___ Avoid judgmental attitudes (John 8:6b-9). Jewish religious leaders condemned the woman as a lawbreaker. Jesus reminded them they all were sinners. His words made the accusers so uncomfortable that they left one by one. Recogniz-ing our own sinfulness can prevent our judging others.
___ Explain and extend forgiveness to others (John 8:10-11). Jesus demonstrated both compassion and holiness. He showed compassion by declaring, "Neither do I condemn you" (v. 11a). He demonstrated holiness by urging the woman to live a pure life (v. 11b).
___ Support others with prayer (James 5:16). James mentioned two types of prayers which are effective in supporting others. Mutual confession can produce healing in personal crises. Intercession for others can develop spiritual strengthening and victory.
___Confession of sins to others demands trust and wisdom. We must not unburden our souls to those who abuse our confidence.
___ Become agents of change (James 5:19-20). Interpreters debate whether James is discussing the reclamation of straying Christians or the conversion of the lost. In favor of the latter view is the emphasis on saving someone "from death" (v. 20). No Christian needs to have a soul rescued from death.
___James commended Christians who were involved in a ministry of claiming people who have lived outside God's forgiveness. When we offer the forgiveness of Christ, we can help reclaim those who have practiced abortion or other sins which bring them in conflict with God's laws.

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