Knowing That God is Supreme

In review of Matthew 27:12-14 it says, “But when the leading priests and the elders made their accusations against him, Jesus remained silent. “Don’t you hear all these charges they are bringing against you?” Pilate demanded. But Jesus made no response to any of the charges, much to the governor’s surprise.” Matthew 27:12-14 NLT

Today's verses come from the first part of Matthew chapter 27 in which Jesus faced his trial with Pilate. In this story, Jesus stood before Pilate who was the roman governor of the time. Pilate asked Jesus, "are you the king of the Jews?" Jesus replied with "You have said it." However when the leading priests and the elders made their accusations against him, Jesus remained silent. "Don't you hear all these charges they are bringing against you?" Pilate demanded. But Jesus made no response to any of the charges, much to the governor's surprise.

In these passages we are shown how Jesus was being wrongly accused and to everyone surprise decides to remain quiet. He did not defend himself. Jesus could have very well been able to do something to keep this from happening or change the situation more to his favor, however he knew what fate awaited him and the importance of it all taking place, just as was prophesied in scripture as written in Isaiah 53:7 NLT (where it says, He was oppressed and treated harshly, yet he never said a word. He was led like a lamb to the slaughter. And as a sheep is silent before the shearers, he did not open his mouth.)

It is curious as to why Jesus didn’t defend Himself? It was likely because He had already determined to lay down His life for us (me). It didn’t matter what questions or accusations were brought against Him; the plan set by God was to be carried out.

Also, the religious leaders were so interested in eliminating what they saw as a threat to their authority and what they taught the people, that they used their religious zeal to justify eliminating Jesus from the picture, thinking it was best for their authority and lifestyle.  What seems odd to me is that they were so blinded by what they wanted and thought that they failed to see how scripture was actually being fulfilled by themselves and their actions.

I'm sure there will be times in my life when I feel God is asking me to do something that others may criticize or misunderstand me for. In those times, it's not always necessary for me to vehemently defend myself and my position. It doesn't really matter what questions or accusations are brought against me, God's plans are always supreme and will ultimately be what takes place.

Also, I can see myself also in the religious leaders, in as far as I’m often so interested in my agenda that I may not always be seeing the full picture and God intent clearly.

So like Pilate, I may end up questioning God as well about his plans. If and when I do, this shows a lack of faith in His plan for my life. Because He is all-powerful and all-knowing, it is really important to always seek His guidance and wisdom, instead of questioning His judgment and His plans for the situation.

This morning Lord, I ask you to forgive me for not trusting You and for wondering whether You know what You are doing. I know my life is in Your hands. Please help me to keep my mind open to Your greatness and authority. In Jesus’ name.

Bottom Line:

God's plans are supreme and will ultimately be what happens

What this means to me:

God's plans for my life are supreme, far above what I could ever plan for myself. They will ultimately be what happens. It is better for me to adopt and accept them and move forward and not question or try to defend what I think.