Promise: Isaiah 53:7-9Fulfillment: Matthew 27:12
He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth; like a lamb that is led to the slaughter, and like a sheep that before its shearers is silent, so he opened not his mouth. (Isaiah 53:7 ESV)
But when he was accused by the chief priests and elders, he gave no answer. (Matthew 27:12 ESV)
Around 700 B.C. the prophet Isaiah wrote that, though hated and rejected, Jesus would not defend himself. Matthew, when recording his Gospel account, made note of that very thing. Jesus did not attempt to defend himself before the gathering of murderous charlatans.
I can't imagine being in that situation and not standing up for myself. It is an idea that is so totally foreign to my way of thinking. I find it incredibly difficult to roll over int he face of unjust accusation.
But Jesus did it. The Gospel writers make no mention of any attempt by Christ to defend himself during his trial. He endured the accusations, understanding them to be a part of God's plan in some strange way.
It will be hard for me. It's not my style. I might not be able to do it. To be honest, I'm not really sure that I want to. However, I would do well to remember Jesus' response the next time I face undue accusation. We would all do well to remember what Jesus endured before the physical brutality even began.