"Jesus Examined by Pilate"

Matthew 27:11-14: Now Jesus stood before the governor. And the governor asked Him, saying, Are You the King of the Jews? Jesus said to him, It is as you say. And while He was being accused by the chief priests and elders, He answered nothing. Then Pilate said to Him, Do You nothear how many things they testify against You? But He answered him not one word, so that the governor marveled greatly.

The Old Testament predicted: As a lamb before her shearers is dumb, so He opened not His mouth (Isaiah 53:7). As long as the questions were based on false and vindictive charges issued by the Jews, Jesus did not speak. Why do we find Jesus beginning his questioning by Pilate with an affirmation that He indeed was the King of the Jews? The answer is that this was not a baseless charge but merely a statement of fact.

Pilate the Governor who held his position in a tenuous manner in this forsaken frontier called Palestine (about as welcoming as Afghanistan was to the Soviet occupation of the late 1970's). Used to the prospect of radicals attempting to overthrow the Roman government, Pilate is astonished at the quiet confidence which the Lord manifested. No accusation perturbed Him. He did not attempt to defend Himself. Assured in his own mind that Jesus was innocent of any crime, and yet knowing the implacable character of His accusers, Pilate sought for some way whereby he might release Jesus, and yet not displease these wily and unscrupulous religious leaders. His actions in this regard will be explored on Monday.

The fact that Jesus did not answer baseless charges does make us wonder if we also should do that. We must be prepared to give an answer for the hope that lies within us, and unfortunately the devil will attempt to destroy our testimony. If defending yourself is going to advance the cause of Christ, then it is proper. Each situation may vary, and a blanket statement cannot be made as to the extent of defending yourself. However, most conflicts in life (not regarding our faith) are answered best by a humble and contrite response, rather than an arrogant destruction of the opposition.