Jesus was faced with opposition from every side. Judas betrayed him. Peter, one of his closet disciples, denied him, and now Jesus was falsely accused. Jesus had plenty of reasons to threaten those who misunderstood him. He could have chosen to argue with the people, or defend His position. He could have challenged the religious through the scriptures. However, Jesus did none of the above. Jesus’ response is described in below scripture:
As soon as the chief priests and their officials saw him, they shouted, “Crucify! Crucify!”But Pilate answered, “You take him and crucify him. As for me, I find no basis for a charge against him.”
The Jewish leaders insisted, “We have a law, and according to that law he must die, because he claimed to be the Son of God.”
When Pilate heard this, he was even more afraid, and he went back inside the palace. “Where do you come from?” he asked Jesus, but Jesus gave him no answer. “Do you refuse to speak to me?” Pilate said. “Don’t you realize I have power either to free you or to crucify you?”
Jesus answered, “You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above. Therefore the one who handed me over to you is guilty of a greater sin.” John 19:6-11
Pilate asked Jesus a question, but Jesus did not answer him. Pilate reminded Jesus that he had the power to release Him or convict Him, but Jesus still did not defend Himself. He only reminded Pilate who was his true source of authority.
It takes courage not to defend ourselves. Generally, we defend ourselves for one of three reasons. The first reason is because we want to clear our name of any wrong doing and explain our position. This didn’t seem to be an issue for Jesus. He never seemed to be concerned about His reputation. Secondly, we speak up because we want to fight for our rights and correct an injustice committed against us. Jesus knew that it was man’s sinful nature that brings about injustice towards others, and He knew a deeper solution was needed for that condition. Thirdly, we find a need to defend God and take up His cause. Jesus always spoke about God as His father and showed them His special relationship to the Father. That was more important to Him than fighting for God as an advocate.
Jesus didn’t fall for any of these temptations. He was courageous in the midst of all the injustice, betrayal, and rejection. He knew God was the ultimate authority, so He looked to the Lord in the midst of all the pain.
Are you focused on those who wronged you? How you are handling your challenges? Are you facing them with courage?
