PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Matthew 26:63-68
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“But Jesus remained silent.” (Matthew 26:63)
When I am challenged or accused, I quickly go into defensive mode.
I will even go on the offense, challenging and accusing back.
I feel this especially when I am with religious people that challenge or accuse me.
If Jesus came to reveal the truth of God, why did he remain silent?
One reason was because he had already explained himself publicly and clearly.
“Every day I sat in the temple courts teaching, and you did not arrest me.” (26:55)
I also think Jesus knew they’d already made up their minds, that they were…
“… looking for false evidence so that they could put him to death.” (26:59)
Lately I find myself in more of these conversations, where I ought to be silent.
Those who genuinely are seeking insight can be engaged in meaningful conversation.
But don’t waste words on self-defense; remain silent or better, bless them!
Don’t spit or slap like the religious leaders; bless those who persecute you.
There is a time to speak, and a time to be silent – I need to be silent more often.
Live as the Lord leads me to live, love as he leads me to love – and trust him to defend me.
PRAYER
Lord, I realize that my response to being challenged is more like the religious leaders than it is like you. Help me by your Spirit to speak less and humbly, quietly love more!
Jesus finally speaks and answers their question. Jesus knew their intent – he knew they would not believe Him but use it to convict him of blasphemy: “You have said so,” Jesus replied. “But I say to all of you: From now on you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven.” Even in the way he replied it should have triggered fear or at least doubt – that Jesus would return and be seen seated on the right hand of almighty God. I take Jesus words seriously – he is God. Lord Jesus help me to serve. Thank you for the gift of the HS!
Actions speak louder than words. The life of Christ spoke for itself – His deeds. Many are those who speak have their own agenda which can not be changed since they are blinded by the truth. Their hearts are set in stone. At all times I must be ready to give an answer to what I believe, but there are times when my words are like the east wind to those who hear since they refuse to hear. They are deaf to the truth. They are hardened. Just tell them whose you are and God will take care of the rest.
Have thine own way, Lord!
Have thine own way!
Hold o’er my being
absolute sway.
Fill with thy Spirit
till all shall see
Christ only, always,
living in me!