Jesus’ silence reminds us that being quiet at times is significant and the opposite of the world. Our world is filled with noise, often distracting us from what is important in life. People usually speak their minds in critical situations without much thought of the impact of their words, only to regret it later.
I have never lamented being quiet under challenging situations but have regretted speaking careless words. King Solomon gives us advice. Ecclesiastes 3:7A time to tear and a time to mend. A time to be quiet and a time to speak.[1] Proverbs 12:16A fool is quick-tempered, but a wise person stays calm when insulted. [2]
A fool lacks self-control and soon reveals their foolishness through words and actions. A wise person is just the opposite, maintaining self-control and does not fall into the trap of our enemy, satan.
Jesus Maintained Self-control
After being betrayed by Judas, Jesus was led away from the Garden of Gethsemane to the home of Caiaphas, the high priest, for questioning. In an unfair trial, accusers who should have remained silent came forward with false charges against Jesus.
Matthew 26:60 But even though they found many who agreed to give false witness, they could not use anyone’s testimony. Finally, two men came forward 61 who declared, “This man said, ‘I am able to destroy the Temple of God and rebuild it in three days.’ ” 62 Then the high priest stood up and said to Jesus, “Well, aren’t you going to answer these charges? What do you have to say for yourself?”[3]
Caiaphas tried to intimidate Jesus and anger Him, but He would not engage these liars in a conversation. Matthew 26:63 But Jesus remained silent. [4] In silence, we see the power and wisdom of Jesus, who keeps His composure, which infuriates the High Priest. Silence can speak loudly about our confidence that God has everything under control.
Jesus Spoke Under Oath
The High Priest put Jesus under oath to answer his questions in this unfair trial. Matthew 26:63Then the high priest said to him, “I demand in the name of the living God—tell us if you are the Messiah, the Son of God.”[5] Based on Leviticus 5:1, it was sinful not to testify. Jesus, now under oath, chose to speak, affirming that He is the Son of God and proclaiming His divinity.
While claiming to know God, the High Priest continually opened his mouth, showing that He did not know the Lord and was a tool of satan. Words are essential to spread the Gospel’s Good News, but sometimes silence is a better testimony in contentious situations. As you reflect on your life, what wisdom is the Lord showing you about the importance of remaining silent?
To learn more about Jesus’ silence, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/blind-ignorance
[1-5] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.