What can we learn from Jesus' silence in Matthew 26:62 about facing false accusations? Setting the scene • Matthew 26:62–63: “So the high priest stood up and asked Him, ‘Have You no answer? What are these men testifying against You?’ But Jesus remained silent.” • Jesus is fully aware the charges are fabricated (cf. Mark 14:56). • His silence is deliberate, not passive; it fulfills prophecy and reveals His trust in the Father’s plan. Why Jesus chose silence • Fulfillment of Scripture—Isaiah 53:7: “He was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before its shearers is silent, so He did not open His mouth.” • Submission to the Father’s timetable (John 18:11). • Refusal to dignify lies: Proverbs 26:4, “Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you will be like him yourself.” • Demonstration of inner strength—self-control is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:23). Lessons for us when falsely accused 1. Silence can be a powerful statement. • It signals confidence that truth ultimately prevails (Psalm 37:5–6). 2. Trust God’s vindication. • Exodus 14:14: “The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still.” 3. Guard against reactive sin. • 1 Peter 2:21–23: Christ “did not retaliate; when He suffered, He made no threats.” 4. Focus on pleasing God, not managing every opinion. • 1 Corinthians 4:3–4: “It is a very small thing that I should be judged by you or any human court.” 5. Silence is not weakness. • It reflects confidence that God sees and records every injustice (Romans 12:19). When to speak, when to be silent • Jesus later answers under oath (Matthew 26:64). • Silence is appropriate when: – Words would fuel malicious intent (Proverbs 17:28). – The audience is closed to reason (Luke 23:9). • Speech is required when: – Truth must be clarified for God’s glory (Acts 4:10–12). – Silence would enable harm to others (Proverbs 31:8). Strength drawn from God’s promises • Psalm 27:1–3—confidence in God’s defense. • Psalm 62:5–6—resting in God as rock and salvation. • Hebrews 13:6—“The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid.” Putting it into practice • Pray before responding; ask if words are necessary or if silence will honor God more. • Remember Jesus’ example whenever misrepresented; imitate His calm assurance. • Commit your reputation to God, continuing to live uprightly so that, in time, falsehood is exposed by consistent integrity (1 Peter 3:16). |
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