How should we respond when falsely accused, as seen in Luke 23:1? Setting the Scene “Then the whole council rose and led Jesus away to Pilate.” (Luke 23:1) The Sanhedrin has condemned Jesus on fabricated charges. In the next verse they will accuse Him before the Roman governor. From this moment until the resurrection, Jesus faces an unbroken stream of slander, mockery, and violence—yet His conduct remains perfect. Observing Jesus under False Accusation • Silence when words would not help (Luke 23:9) • Truthful, concise answers when required (Luke 23:3) • No self-defense driven by anger or fear (Isaiah 53:7 quoted in Acts 8:32) • Complete trust in the Father’s justice (1 Peter 2:23) Principles for Our Response • Expect misunderstanding. “Blessed are you when people insult you… falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me.” (Matthew 5:11-12) • Guard the tongue. “He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in His mouth.” (1 Peter 2:22) • Leave vengeance to God. “Do not avenge yourselves… ‘Vengeance is Mine; I will repay,’ says the Lord.” (Romans 12:19) • Rest in God’s vindication. “He will bring forth your righteousness like the dawn.” (Psalm 37:6) Practical Steps to Follow 1. Pause and pray before answering. 2. Speak only what is necessary, truthful, and gracious. “A gentle answer turns away wrath.” (Proverbs 15:1) 3. Refuse retaliation—verbally or otherwise. 4. Entrust reputation and outcome to the Lord, continuing to do what is right. 5. Keep serving others; do not let slander sideline obedience. Encouraging Promises to Hold • God sees every injustice. “The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous.” (1 Peter 3:12) • He will vindicate at the proper time. “Commit your way to the LORD… He will do it.” (Psalm 37:5) • Suffering for Christ is never wasted. “Great is your reward in heaven.” (Matthew 5:12) Following our Lord’s example in Luke 23:1 and the verses that follow, we respond to false accusation with calm truth, restrained speech, and unwavering trust in the righteous Judge. |
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