What does "He did not open His mouth" teach about humility?

The Prophecy in Focus: Isaiah 53:7

“He was oppressed and afflicted, yet He did not open His mouth; like a lamb led to the slaughter, and like a sheep silent before its shearers, so He did not open His mouth.”

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Humility on Display in Silence

– Willing submission: His refusal to protest shows deliberate acceptance of the Father’s will.

– Strength under control: True humility is not weakness; it is power restrained for a higher purpose (Philippians 2:6–8).

– Trust in God’s justice: By remaining silent, He placed the outcome entirely in the Father’s hands (1 Peter 2:23).

– Self-forgetfulness: The focus is on saving others, not on defending personal rights (Mark 10:45).

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Jesus Fulfilling the Prophecy

– Before Caiaphas: “But Jesus remained silent.” (Matthew 26:63)

– Before Pilate: “He gave him no answer, not even to a single charge.” (Matthew 27:14)

– Before Herod: “Jesus gave him no answer.” (Luke 23:9)

– On the cross: “Father, forgive them...” (Luke 23:34) — speaking blessing, not self-defense.

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Lessons for Our Own Humility

– Silence can be a godly response when falsely accused.

– Humility trusts God’s vindication instead of self-vindication (Romans 12:19).

– Serving others may require laying aside the right to be heard or understood (John 13:14–15).

– The Spirit empowers believers to mirror Christ’s attitude (Galatians 5:22–23).

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Walking It Out Daily

– Choose restrained speech when tempted to retaliate (Proverbs 17:27–28).

– Submit personal rights for the gospel’s sake (1 Corinthians 9:19).

– Practice listening more than speaking (James 1:19).

– Remember the cross: Christ’s silent sacrifice is the model and motivation for humble living.