How can we apply Jesus' example in John 18:23 to our daily conflicts? Setting the Scene John 18:22-23: “When Jesus had said this, one of the officers standing nearby slapped Him in the face and said, ‘Is this how You answer the high priest?’ Jesus replied, ‘If I said something wrong, testify as to what was wrong. But if I spoke rightly, why did you strike Me?’” What We Observe in Jesus’ Response • Calm composure in the face of physical insult • Respectful appeal to truth and justice • No retaliation, no harsh words • Invitation for honest accountability (“testify as to what was wrong”) • Commitment to righteousness even under pressure Timeless Principles from One Sentence • Wrong still needs to be named—silence is not demanded by meekness. • Truth can be spoken without venom. • Personal dignity is maintained without resorting to violence or sarcasm. • Real justice is anchored in objective right and wrong, not emotion. Daily-Life Applications • Pause before reacting. A calm tone disarms tension more than a raised voice. • Ask clarifying questions instead of hurling accusations: “Can you show where I’m at fault?” • Confront error with facts, not personal attacks. • Refuse to strike back—verbally, digitally, or physically—when mistreated. • Keep your conscience clean; if you’ve spoken rightly, stand firm. • Lean on the Holy Spirit for self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). • Yield any desire for revenge to God, who judges justly (Romans 12:19). Scriptures that Echo the Same Heart • Isaiah 53:7—“He was oppressed and afflicted, yet He opened not His mouth.” • Matthew 5:39—“But I tell you, do not resist an evil person.” • 1 Peter 2:23—“When He was reviled, He did not retaliate; when He suffered, He made no threats.” • Proverbs 15:1—“A gentle answer turns away wrath.” A Snapshot Checklist for Conflict Moments 1. Breathe and pray. 2. Examine your words: truth-filled or heat-filled? 3. Speak with steady respect. 4. Ask for clarification if accused. 5. Leave the outcome with God. |
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