Matthew 17:11-14

Matthew 27:11-14 (ESV): “11 Now Jesus stood before the governor, and the governor asked him•, “Are you the King of the Jews?” Jesus said, “You have said so.” 12 But when he was accused by the chief priests and elders, he gave no answer. 13 Then Pilate said to him, “Do you not hear how many things they testify against you?” 14 But he gave him no answer, not even to a single charge, so that the governor was greatly amazed.”

There is wisdom in remaining silent when falsely accused. Sometimes our defense only makes the matter worse. There is a time to speak, but there is also a time to trust God, remain humble, and let Him defend us.

After Jesus was condemned by the Sanhedrin and the elders, He was brought before Pilate. Pilate was not a kind man. He was not known for compassion when it came to judgment. Seeing Jesus already beaten and bruised, Pilate asked Him, “Are you the King of the Jews?” Jesus answered, “You have said so.” Then the chief priests and elders accused Him, but Jesus gave no answer. Pilate was amazed because every other prisoner would have been pleading his case. Yet Jesus remained silent because He knew this was the ordained will of God.

How do you respond when you are falsely accused? There is a time to defend yourself, but understand that sometimes your defense will only create more drama. The best thing to do is remain humble and trust that God will sort it out. He is our defender and our help in time of need. Don’t let the comments of others cause you to come out of character. Stand firm in who the Father declares you to be, and trust that He will defend you as needed.

Father, You know why accusations come, so give us wisdom to know whether or not we should respond. We trust You, so help us wait on You to defend us. We pray this in Jesus’ name, amen.