How should we respond when falsely accused, following Jesus' example in Matthew 26:62? Facing False Accusations: Jesus in Matthew 26:62 “So the high priest stood up and said to Him, ‘Have You no answer? What are these men testifying against You?’” (Matthew 26:62) What Jesus Did - Remained silent while lies swirled around Him (Matthew 26:63). - Trusted the Father’s sovereign plan instead of defending Himself (Isaiah 53:7). - Spoke only when truth needed to be stated clearly (Matthew 26:64). - Entrusted justice to God rather than retaliating (1 Peter 2:23). Why Silence Can Be Powerful - Displays confidence that God sees and judges righteously (Psalm 37:5-6). - Guards the tongue from sinning in the heat of emotion (Proverbs 10:19). - Highlights integrity when accusations cannot stick (Titus 2:7-8). - Keeps the focus on God’s vindication, not personal vindictiveness (Romans 12:19). Practical Ways to Follow Jesus’ Pattern - Choose measured silence instead of immediate self-defense; wait on the Lord for timing. - Examine the heart before God: confess any real fault, but stand firm where innocent. - When necessary, state truth respectfully and briefly—let facts, not fury, speak. - Maintain good works so slander collapses under the weight of visible righteousness (1 Peter 2:12). - Pray for accusers and resist bitterness; Christ forgave from the cross (Luke 23:34). Balancing Silence with Responsibility - Scripture encourages lawful, respectful appeals when appropriate (Acts 22:25). - Silence is not passive resignation; it is active trust coupled with righteous conduct. - Speaking up to protect others or uphold justice remains consistent with Christ’s character (John 18:23). Promises to Anchor the Heart - “The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still.” (Exodus 14:14) - “Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him, and He will do it.” (Psalm 37:5) - “Blessed are you when people insult you… because of Me.” (Matthew 5:11) Living It Out Today - Practice daily surrender so unexpected accusations find you already resting in God. - Keep a soft heart and a clear conscience, allowing the Holy Spirit to govern responses. - Remember: in Christ, silence is not weakness; it is strength under perfect control, pointing observers to the righteous Judge who will one day set every record straight. |
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