Two approaches : "Hard" or "Soft" (continued)

There is also a softer approach with humble hearts. Jesus did not have the same approach with everyone. He did not systematically resort to the law. With those who came to him with a humble heart, Jesus did not need to use the arsenal of the Ten Commandments.

Nicodemus was a doctor of the law. He came to meet Jesus by night. This man was already versed in the law of God (John 3:10). And the way he spoke to Jesus not only shows that this man was humble and respectful, but that he recognized the authority of Jesus. He showed no contempt for Jesus as most Pharisees did.

"He came by night to Jesus and said to him : Master, we know that you are a teacher sent by God, because no one can do these miraculous signs that you do if God is not with him" (John 3:2) .

In Nathanael's heart, there was no fraud. One prophetic word of the Lord suffices to convince him of the divinity of Jesus.

"Jesus saw Nathanael approach him and said of him : This is truly an Israelite in whom there is no trickery. Where do you know me ? Nathanael told him. Jesus answered him : Before Philip called you when you were under the fig tree, I saw you. Nathanael answered : "Master, you are the Son of God, you are the king of Israel" (John 1:47-49).

With Nicodemus and Nathanael, we are not witnessing a confrontation. The approach of the Lord is much softer. He does not seek to convince them of sin because he has before him individuals whose hearts are well disposed. The adulterous woman and the robber on the cross are, for their part, deeply convinced of sin. And Jesus does not insist more on their guilt.

Jeremy Sourdril