John 8:6

This they said, tempting him.

The dilemma corresponds to that of the tribute money. To affirm the binding validity and force of the Mosaic enactment, would be to counsel. course of action contrary to the Roman law, and would also be incongruous with the merciful spirit of him who had called publicans and permitted "sinners" to weep unrebuked upon his feet. On the other hand, to set aside the Mosaic judgment would make him liable to the charge of breaking the law of Moses and would be. powerful aid in breaking down his influence with the people. In one case they could accuse him to the Romans and place him under the ban of the civil power; in the other they could denounce him. setter aside of their cherished law.

With his finger wrote on the ground.

His act was. significant object lesson which said that he would pay no attention to them. When anyone speaks to me and. busy myself with something else it signifies that. do not consider him worthy of attention. It may be noted that this is the only record given that Christ ever wrote. line. It is vain to conjecture what he may have written with his finger in the dust, but if it had come down to us it would probably be found to have. marvellous adaptation to the circumstances.