John 8:5-6

Jesus’ critics were correct in their interpretation of the Mosaic Law (cf. Leviticus 20:10; Deuteronomy 22:22-24). However the Jews of Jesus’ day apparently did not enforce this law often, especially in urban areas. [Note: Ibid., p. 335.] The writer said the authorities wanted to trap Jesus into saying something they could use against Him (cf. Matthew 22:15-22; Mark 12:13-17; Luke 20:20-26). They appear to have wanted Jesus’ execution more than the woman’s.

If Jesus advocated not executing the woman, the lawyers and Pharisees could charge Him with teaching the people to violate the law. If He recommended executing her, He would contradict His own reputation for being gracious and forgiving (cf. Luke 5:20; Luke 7:47). Moreover He would alienate Himself from the Jews. That decision might have gotten Him in trouble with the Roman authorities too (cf. John 18:31).