Bible Reading Blog
“He Remained Silent”
Categories: Congregational Bible ReadingBIBLE READING: Mark 14
The injustice against Jesus was evident. However, Jesus doesn’t decry their actions or beg them to stop. He knew this was coming (Mark 14.18-21), and he met it all head-on (Mark 14.42). If anyone had a right to defend themselves, it was Jesus. But instead, “he remained silent” (Mark 14.61).
I cannot fathom the gumption Jesus had to hold his tongue in that moment. On this side of the cross, we know what Jesus was doing (1 Peter 2.24), but in those moments of intense suffering, it must have taken everything he had to keep his mouth shut and trust the will of God.
“When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly” (1 Peter 2.22).
As we strive to emulate Christ, we must consider how we respond when faced with injustice against ourselves. When we proclaim and pursue the will of the Father, ultimately that will put us at odds with those of this world, and even some religious people.
Nobody likes to be wrongly accused. Naturally, we are inclined to fight for rights and appeal to immediate justice. But if they treated Jesus this way, what makes us think we will be any different? (John 15.20; 1 Peter 4.12).
I must admit, I don’t like being called dogmatic or Pharisaical; and I’m careful to avoid being hypocritical with my life; but it should come as no surprise that even well-meaning religious people may denounce us as “too stingy” if we are committed to doing the Father’s will. That is what they did to Jesus.
We may not be called to torturously die for our faith, but we will face opposition when we unashamedly stand for God’s will (1 Peter 2.21). Jesus wasn’t concerned with what others thought or even what they would do to him. He knew what it would cost… but he also knew what he would gain (Hebrews 12.2-3). And so, he focused on honoring God and doing His will at all costs. Will we do the same?
“Therefore, let those who suffer according to God’s will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good” (1 Peter 4.19).
