THE STORY OF JESUS: Mark 15:1-5
“‘See how many things they accuse you of.’ But Jesus made no reply.” (Mark 15:5)
Why is Jesus quiet when He is being falsely accused?
Its not ‘normal’; we usually go into defense and attack mode.
Jesus knew that defending Himself was pointless; no one would listen.
He also knew God’s heart, that attack or blame is not God’s way.
Contrast how Adam and Eve defended themselves by blaming Satan and God.
Jesus is trusting God to be His defender.
I sense the Lord reminding me of situations where I felt accused.
Did I respond in humility, willing to admit where I was wrong?
Did I go on the attack, and accuse my accusers back?
Did my response reflect the grace and humility of Jesus, the heart of God?
Jesus did answer some questions, but He answered with gentleness and respect.
He did not get aggressive or accusatory; He remained calm, quiet, and trusting.
Jesus is gently probing my self-defensive heart, exposing my fear and pride.
‘Can you let down your aggressive defenses, and let Me help and defend you?’
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, You came to save me from my self-centered heart. Help me to surrender myself to You and Your care, and not defend myself in unhealthy, unhelpful ways.
The religious leaders handed Jesus over to the political leader and charged Him with a political offense. A capital offense. Yet Jesus remained silent at the charge.
Remember the disciple found out warming himself at a distance? He was not silent.
How do I respond when accused of being His follower? Is there enough to accuse me? Will I deny Him or stand in His power of love?
Help me each say anew Lord to stand up for Jesus.
Am I a soldier of the cross,
A follow’r of the Lamb?
And shall I fear to own His cause,
Or blush to speak His name?
Must I be carried to the skies
On flow’ry beds of ease,
While others fought to win the prize,
And sailed through bloody seas?
Are there no foes for me to face?
Must I not stem the flood?
Is this vile world a friend to grace,
To help me on to God?
Sure I must fight if I would reign;
Increase my courage, Lord;
I’ll bear the toil, endure the pain,
Supported by Thy Word.
Thy saints in all this glorious war
Shall conquer, though they die;
They see the triumph from afar,
By faith’s discerning eye.
When that illustrious day shall rise,
And all Thy armies shine
In robes of vict’ry through the skies,
The glory shall be Thine.