Two Kingdoms - Part 2Sample

He stayed silent

Notice how Jesus responded – or didn’t respond – to how he was treated. In the face of humiliation, taunting, and inhumane treatment, He didn’t respond in anger or give in to the pressure. Under intense pressure and pain, He remained true to his Kingdom identity. Imagine the Son of God – fully human but also fully God, withstanding this amount of humiliation and ridicule. Surely it must have been tempting to prove His power, and His authority, and show who He really was. But He knew there was a bigger plan and purpose going on. He knew what had to happen and He withstood it all.

It might be hard to imagine yourself in this kind of situation, but let’s consider what we can take away from Jesus’ character. What can we learn about how He reacted in the face of extreme persecution, humiliation, and mockery? In verses 12-14, we see that despite being confronted with various accusations; Jesus remained silent. He made no response to any of the charges, much to the governor’s surprise. Under intense pressure and unjust treatment, His Kingdom identity was made seen to all of those around Him.

As Kingdom people, we are to live as Jesus lived. As followers of Jesus, we strive to imitate His character and reflect His image through the way we live. When your faith remains strong through many trials, it is shown to be genuine. We are called to take joy in the trials of life because we can be sure that suffering will produce perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. (Romans 5: 3-4)

Go deep: Today, consider all that Jesus went through on His journey to the cross. What can you take away from the way He withstood persecution, humiliation, and false accusations?

Be bold: Who could you share this story with today? How could you reflect the image of Jesus when facing trials or unfair treatment?

Memorise it: “Then Pilate asked him, “Don’t you hear the testimony they are bringing against you?” But Jesus made no reply, not even to a single charge—to the great amazement of the governor.” - Matthew 27:13-14 NIV