PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Matthew 27:11-19
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“Jesus made no reply, not even to a single charge…” (Matthew 27:14)
What would you do if you were being falsely accused?
What would you say if the people you trusted turn against you?
How would you respond if the church was looking to remove you?
I know what I would want to do, but it is not what Jesus did.
Pilate is amazed that Jesus remains silent, and I am too.
Even if I chose to remain silent, my anger would soon lash out in a verbal retort.
Already now I can imagine this scene playing out today, and my smart comebacks.
But I see Jesus making no reply, refusing to join in on their word games.
Pilate is not my judge, and neither are the religious leaders; Jesus is!
I will make no defense… there is no defense… I rely on the mercy of God!
“I care very little if I am judged by you or by any human court; indeed, I do not even judge myself.
My conscience is clear, but that does not make me innocent.
It is the Lord who judges me.” (1 Corinthians 4:3-4)
What shall we say in response… if Jesus is for us, who can be against us (Romans 8:31)
PRAYER
Lord, silence my defensive spirit, and help me to trust in you as my one defense, my righteousness!
There are so many confirmations of Jesus’ innocence – here’s another one: “Don’t have anything to do with that innocent man, for I have suffered a great deal today in a dream because of him.” So Pilate tries but finally gives in to the crowd. Am I swayed by societal opinion and ways – yes in many ways. I do need to stay principled but they need to have their focus on Jesus first – asking always – What would Jesus do? To understand that I need to understand Jesus’ ways more so each day! Help me to grow I pray in knowing you!
All this happened so that I can be set free by His death. He died so that I can live. The governor knew the scheme of the religious leaders. Even Pilate’s wife saw that He was innocent. Yet it is through Christ’s amazing love I am set free to serve. What a Savior! I am made right by His suffering. I am alive through His death and resurrection.
“Man of Sorrows!” what a name
For the Son of God, who came
Ruined sinners to reclaim.
Hallelujah! What a Savior!
Bearing shame and scoffing rude,
In my place condemned He stood;
Sealed my pardon with His blood.
Hallelujah! What a Savior!
Guilty, vile, and helpless we;
Spotless Lamb of God was He;
“Full atonement!” can it be?
Hallelujah! What a Savior!
Lifted up was He to die;
“It is finished!” was His cry;
Now in Heav’n exalted high.
Hallelujah! What a Savior!
When He comes, our glorious King,
All His ransomed home to bring,
Then anew His song we’ll sing:
Hallelujah! What a Savior!