#121. And Jesus remained silent
Often we look at people who are loud, bold, forceful and strong in their opinions as the obvious leaders. In today’s passage Jesus doesn't show any of these characteristics instead we are told for much of his time with those in authority He remained silent. Let’s read today’s scripture -
Mark 14:53-65 NIV
They took Jesus to the high priest, and all the chief priests, the elders and the teachers of the law came together. Peter followed him at a distance, right into the courtyard of the high priest. There he sat with the guards and warmed himself at the fire. The chief priests and the whole Sanhedrin were looking for evidence against Jesus so that they could put him to death, but they did not find any. Many testified falsely against him, but their statements did not agree. Then some stood up and gave this false testimony against him: “We heard him say, 'I will destroy this temple made with human hands and in three days will build another, not made with hands.' ”Yet even then their testimony did not agree. Then the high priest stood up before them and asked Jesus, “Are you not going to answer? What is this testimony that these men are bringing against you?” But Jesus remained silent and gave no answer. Again the high priest asked Him, “Are you the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One?” “I am,” said Jesus. “And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven.” The high priest tore his clothes. “Why do we need any more witnesses?” he asked. “You have heard the blasphemy. What do you think?” They all condemned him as worthy of death. Then some began to spit at Him; they blindfolded Him, struck Him with their fists, and said, “Prophesy!” And the guards took Him and beat Him. …
Jesus knows who He is (I am) and He knows where things are heading. Jesus is in control and His silence demonstrates this through letting the powerful have their say.
Often we think that we have to speak (sometimes we do) but often remaining silent is the best option. We can speak to make ourselves look that we are in control or together but Jesus demonstrates His strength of character through remaining silent for much of His interrogation. Ask the Lord this morning to give us wisdom for when we too might need to be silent.
Fools give full vent to their rage, but the wise bring calm in the end.*1
Much love
Tim
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* 1 Proverbs 29:11 NIV
#122. Peter’s denial
In this morning’s reading we read about Peter’s denial of Jesus, not once or twice but three times in the space of 150 words or so -
Mark 14:66-72 NIV
While Peter was below in the courtyard, one of the servant girls of the high priest came by. When she saw Peter warming himself, she looked closely at him. “You also were with that Nazarene, Jesus,” she said. But he denied it. “I don't know or understand what you're talking about,” he said, and went out into the entryway. When the servant girl saw him there, she said again to those standing around, “This fellow is one of them.” Again he denied it. After a little while, those standing near said to Peter, “Surely you are one of them, for you are a Galilean.” He began to call down curses, and he swore to them, “I don't know this man you're talking about.” Immediately the rooster crowed the second time. Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken to him: “Before the rooster crows twice i you will disown me three times .” And he broke down and wept. …
In Mark’s gospel he has purposely put this account of Peter’s denial here for us to compare and contrast Peter’s words/actions compared to Jesus’ before and after this incident.
So for instance we see both men being accused but there are very different responses from each of them.
Jesus spoke the truth v Peter who lied
Jesus revealed his identity v Peter denied his.
Jesus was condemned for people like Peter v Peter who caused the condemnation.
This morning remind yourself that you have more in common with Peter than Jesus. But also that Jesus has called you (like Peter) to follow Him and live for Him each day.
When reading these words it is worth also remembering the pos- resurrection breakfast that Jesus had with Peter in John 21.
In the same way that Peter denies Jesus three times here, Jesus goes on to ask Peter if he loved him three times. It is a wonderful story of forgiveness, reconciliation and commission for a man who thought he had blown it.
We blow it just like Peter but know the words of Jesus who says to Peter (and us) - — Feed my sheep and follow me. (John 21 v17&19)
When we know the forgiveness that Jesus gives - He commands us to feed people (with the truth) and daily follow Him.
Much love
Tim