But when we wish to examine the very letter of the words as given by Matthew, He that speaks evil of father or mother, let him die the death,^[1] consider whether it was taken from the place where it was written, Whoso strikes his father or mother, let him die the death; and he that speaks evil of father or mother, let him die the death.^[2] For such are the exact words taken from the law with regard to the two commandments; but Matthew has quoted them in part and in an abridged form, and not in the very words.

A woman accused of adultery was brought by the scribes and Pharisees to the Lord Jesus. But the woman was presented with guile, so that if Jesus should absolve her, he would appear to break the law. But if Jesus should condemn her, he would deviate from the purpose for which he came, since he came to forgive the sins of all. Earlier he said, I do not judge anyone. But presenting her, they said, We found this woman openly committing adultery. Now it is written in the law of Moses that every adulteress is to be stoned. But what do you have to say about her?