“But when the leading priests and the elders made their accusations against him, Jesus remained silent” (Matthew 27:12 NLT).
The Roman governor, Pontius Pilate marveled greatly at Jesus’s silence in the face of His accusers. Surely he had judged and condemned many a man, but never one like this. Who was this man that stood silent with such quiet dignity?
Neither Pilate nor the chief priests and elders recognized this silent savior. Yet, his silence was foretold by the prophet Isaiah centuries before: “He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth; like a lamb that is led to the slaughter, and like a sheep that before its shearers is silent, so he opened not his mouth” (Isa. 53:7).
Our Savior was silent before His accusers, yet His silence speaks loudly to those who have believed. He is the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world. He is the One who died in our place, so that we might live forever through faith in Him.
PRAYER: Dear Father, we are often full of excuses for our sins, yet our silent Savior spoke not a word on behalf of His innocence. Because of Jesus we no longer make excuses, but come openly confessing our sins, knowing that You are faithful and just to forgive us our sins and wash us from all unrighteousness. Thank You Jesus. In Your name we pray, amen.