Jesus Teaches Compassion Above The Strict Requirements Of The Law

61. Recall the famous incident when the Scribes and Pharisees brought a woman caught in adultery before Jesus, asking him whether he would approve her punishment of stoning to death as required by the Jewish law. Jesus responded: "Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw the stone at her." (John 8:4-11, RSV.)

62. After her accusers silently disappeared, Jesus said to the woman: "Neither do I condemn you; go and do not sin again." (Ibid.)

63. Would you agree that Jesus teaches us by his example that compassion and mercy may be more appropriate than rigidly requiring the harsh punishment of the law?

64. Does Jesus' teachings about compassion, mercy, and forgiveness help understand why a conservative Christian like President Bush seeks to find a solution for 12 million undocumented immigrants "without animosity"-that is with compassion, mercy, and forgiveness?