The Eloquence of Silence

 

The chief priests accused him of many things. So again Pilate asked him, “Aren’t you going to answer? See how many things they are accusing you of.” But Jesus still made no reply, and Pilate was amazed. Mark 15:3-5 (NIV)

You know it is going to be a bad day when you are waiting behind some Hells Angels at a red light and the guy behind you lays on the horn as soon as the light changes. Your first words after waking up in the hospital are, “Hey, it wasn’t my fault!”

OK, so maybe that is a bit of hyperbole. Many of us have been the brunt of another person’s unwarranted wrath. Peter teaches a spiritual principle that applies to any such circumstances, and that is to patiently bear up under unjust accusation and suffering. He writes, But how is it to your credit if you receive a beating for doing wrong and endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God (1^st Peter 2:20). The fleshly side of my nature is not fond of this notion.

There is no credit in bearing a deserved punishment. It is gracious compliance to underserved suffering that finds favor in God’s eyes. Jesus Christ was the perfect example of gracious compliance to unjust accusation and suffering (Is. 53:7). The Roman prefect, Pilate, was amazed by this (Mark 15:5).

It is not easy to keep quiet when we are the focal point of someone’s negative judgments or wrath, especially when unjustified, however there is a trade-off that is right in God’s estimation. Taking it patiently is praiseworthy to Him. It creates blessing in very unfair circumstances for it demonstrates a heart that is right and commendable before God. When we do we exemplify our Lord Jesus Christ in a way that touches hearts and can leave them amazed.

Maranatha,

Ken