Why Jesus Still Says, ‘Go and Sin No More’
Scroll to read a recap of Pastor Caleb Culver’s sermon from October 20, 2025!
Have you ever been caught red-handed? Whether it was when you were five years old, sneaking cookies from the jar, or a teenager making mistakes (like most do), the weight of shame can have a crippling effect. When we know we’ve messed up, that sinking feeling of everyone knows can be heavier than the sin itself.
Condemnation has a way of doing that. It doesn’t just point out what’s wrong—it tries to tell us we’ve gone too far or done too much. The Bible says our sin separates us from God (Isa. 59:2) and that “the wages of sin is death” (Rom. 6:23). It’s heavy stuff. But when we want to hide our face, Jesus steps in, and everything changes.
John 8 gives us a picture of this. Jesus is teaching in the temple when a group of religious leaders burst in, dragging a woman they caught in adultery. They throw her at his feet and demand judgment: “The law says she should be stoned. What do you say?”
In this moment, the Pharisees aren’t judging the woman—they’re testing Jesus to see how he’ll respond. Will he choose the law or mercy?
But instead of arguing, Jesus kneels and begins writing in the dirt. No grand speech. No reaction to their manipulation. Just silence. When they keep pressing, He looks up and says the famous line: “Let the one without sin be the first to throw a stone.”
One by one, they drop their stones, realizing that they, too, are guilty. Jesus turns to the woman and says, “Where are your accusers? Has no one condemned you?” She answers, “No one, Lord.” And He replies, “Neither do I condemn you. Go, and sin no more.”
Jesus doesn’t pretend she’s innocent. He doesn’t excuse her sin. But He also doesn’t leave her crushed under the weight of it. He meets her with mercy: I don’t condemn you. Go and sin no more.
The mercy of Jesus lifts the weight of guilt, and His grace gives us the strength to leave our sins behind. That’s the Gospel in one scene. Jesus didn’t ignore sin—he took it upon Himself. Romans 8 says it clearly: “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” The sentence that should’ve been ours was carried out on Him. The stones meant for us landed on the cross.
Still, many of us live like we’re on trial. We say we believe in grace, but inside, we replay the same accusations. We beat ourselves up for not being “further along” or for failing again. We talk about forgiveness, but treat ourselves like we’re beyond it. That’s not humility—that’s self-condemnation. It’s putting ourselves in a higher court by speaking death over the life God has given us.
When God says, “You’re forgiven. You’re mine,” do we believe Him? Or do we keep arguing our case, dragging ourselves back into that courtroom to relive the same shame?
The truth is, when Jesus said, “It is finished,” He meant it. The case is closed. Court adjourned. The stones dropped.
It takes faith to believe you’re free—not because you’ve earned it, but because He already paid for it. In a world that loves to throw stones, may we be people who know what it feels like to be spared—and who extend that same mercy to others and to ourselves.
The God who stands between us and the stones still stands there today. And He’s inviting us to step into freedom.
Here's a 5-day devotional guide based on this sermon:
Day 1: The God Who Stands Between Us and Condemnation
Reading: John 8:1–11
Devotional: Today’s passage reveals Jesus’ profound mercy in the face of human accusation and condemnation. As we read about the woman caught in adultery, reflect on times you’ve felt exposed, ashamed, or condemned. Jesus doesn’t ignore her sin, but He offers grace and a new path forward. His words, “Neither do I condemn you,” echo through the ages, reminding us that in Christ there is no condemnation (Rom. 8:1). How might you extend this same grace to yourself and others today? Ask God to help you see yourself and those around you through His eyes of mercy.
Day 2: The Mirror of the Law and the Grace of Christ
Reading: Galatians 3:19–26
Devotional: The law serves as a mirror, showing us our flaws and our need for a Savior. But like a mirror, it can’t transform us—it only reveals our condition. Today’s reading explains how the law leads us to Christ. Consider areas in your life where you feel you’re falling short. Instead of wallowing in guilt, let those shortcomings drive you to Jesus. He doesn’t just forgive; He empowers us to “go and sin no more.” Pray for the Holy Spirit to transform you in ways the law never could, and trust God’s grace to cover your imperfections.
Day 3: Silencing the Accuser
Reading: Zechariah 3:1–5
Devotional: This powerful vision shows Satan accusing Joshua the high priest, much like the accusers in John 8. But God rebukes Satan and clothes Joshua in clean garments. This foreshadows Christ taking our shame and giving us His righteousness. Reflect on the “filthy garments” of guilt or shame you might still be wearing. Visualize Jesus removing them and clothing you in His purity. When accusatory thoughts come—whether from others or from your own mind—practice hearing God’s rebuke of the accuser. Thank Jesus for standing between you and condemnation.
Day 4: The Verdict of Grace
Reading: Romans 8:1–4
Devotional: Paul declares the astounding truth that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ. The law of sin and death has been overruled by the law of the Spirit of life. Meditate on what it means to be in Christ. How does this identity shield you from condemnation? Consider areas where you might be condemning yourself or others. Are you demanding a perfection that Christ has already satisfied? Ask God to align your view of yourself with His verdict of “not guilty” through Christ’s sacrifice.
Day 5: From Condemnation to Confidence
Reading: 1 John 3:19–24
Devotional: John addresses the reality that our hearts sometimes condemn us, even when God does not. He reminds us that God is greater than our hearts. When we feel unworthy or ashamed, we can come to God in confidence, knowing He knows all and still loves us. Reflect on how you speak to yourself. Are your inner dialogues filled with grace or condemnation? Practice replacing self-condemning thoughts with truths from Scripture about God’s love and acceptance. Ask the Holy Spirit to give you a deeper assurance of God’s love, silencing the voice of condemnation with the louder voice of grace.
There’s an opportunity for you to grow in your spiritual journey, build meaningful community, and truly get connected. At Radiant Church, we’re passionate about helping people grow in faith, encounter the presence of God, and be part of a church grounded in Spirit and truth.