How can we respond to false accusations as Jesus did in John 8:48? Setting the Scene “The Jews answered Him, ‘Are we not right to say that You are a Samaritan and You have a demon?’” (John 8:48) Jesus is being slandered. His heritage is insulted, His sanity questioned, and His ministry maligned—all in one sentence. How Jesus Responded “I do not have a demon,” Jesus replied, “but I honor My Father, and you dishonor Me. Yet I am not seeking glory for Myself. There is One who seeks it, and He is the Judge.” (John 8:49-50) What We Learn from His Example • He answers plainly and truthfully: “I do not have a demon.” • He keeps the focus on honoring the Father, not defending His ego. • He refuses to seek His own glory; He entrusts vindication to the righteous Judge. Guiding Principles for Us • Speak truth without exaggeration or venom. • Keep God’s honor—not personal image—at the center. • Let God handle ultimate justice; resist the urge to “set everyone straight.” • Maintain composure; do not mirror the hostility aimed at you. Scriptural Anchors That Echo These Principles • Isaiah 53:7—He “did not open His mouth.” • 1 Peter 2:23—“When they heaped abuse on Him, He did not retaliate… but entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly.” • Proverbs 15:1—“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” • Romans 12:19—“Do not avenge yourselves… ‘Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,’ says the Lord.” • Psalm 37:5-6—God will “bring forth your righteousness like the dawn.” Practical Steps When We Face False Accusations 1. Pause and pray before responding; invite the Spirit to guard your tongue. 2. State the truth briefly and clearly, as Jesus did: no ranting, no personal attacks. 3. Redirect the conversation, where possible, toward God’s purposes rather than your reputation. 4. Release the demand to be vindicated immediately; trust God’s timetable. 5. Continue doing good (1 Peter 2:15); consistent righteousness eventually silences slander. The End Result Following Jesus’ pattern turns a moment of accusation into an opportunity for witness. By refusing to lash out, we shine the light of Christ, uphold the Father’s honor, and leave judgment where it belongs—with the Judge who never errs. |
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