John 7:53–8:11 — "The Woman Caught in Adultery"

Whether the Pericope Adulterae (the story of the woman caught in adultery), absent from early manuscripts, is considered an authentic part of John's Gospel.

Overall consensus69/100

New Apostolic Church

New Apostolic Church

Unique & Independent

Nuanced

Passage recognized as late addition; acknowledged but includes in usage

The NAC adopts a nuanced position on John 7:53–8:11: the passage is absent from the earliest and best manuscripts, yet it is theologically consistent with Jesus' character and teaching.

The NAC includes the passage in practice but acknowledges its manuscript uncertainty. The passage's theological content (forgiveness, compassion, distinction between judgment and grace) is affirmed as consistent with Gospel teaching.

Key Distinctions

Textual status:
absent from earliest
Canonical status:
used in teaching
Pastoral value:
consistent with Jesus

Scripture References

Sources

  • International Apostolic Holy Church NAC Catechism
  • NAC Statement of Faith