Matthew 27:14

Matthew 27:14 describes a pivotal moment during Jesus' trial before Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor. Despite Pilate's attempts to elicit a response, Jesus maintained profound silence in the face of numerous accusations. This verse emphasizes the extraordinary nature of Jesus' demeanor, so much so that it deeply astonished the powerful Roman authority.

Context

This verse is situated within the Passion Narrative, specifically during Jesus' hearing before Pontius Pilate. After being unjustly condemned by the Sanhedrin, Jesus was delivered to the Roman governor (Matthew 27:1). The chief priests and elders brought many accusations against Him (Matthew 27:12), to which Jesus offered no defense. Pilate, sensing Jesus' innocence or perhaps recognizing the political machinations at play, questioned Jesus directly, but received no reply.

Key Themes

• Jesus' Deliberate Silence: Jesus' refusal to answer was not out of fear or inability, but a purposeful act demonstrating His submission to the Father's will and His willingness to endure suffering. His silence powerfully contrasted with the clamor of His accusers and Pilate's persistence. This quiet dignity underscored His divine nature and unwavering resolve.
• Fulfillment of Prophecy: This scene is a direct fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, particularly from the Suffering Servant passages in Isaiah. Isaiah 53:7 states, "He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth." Jesus' silence portrays Him as the innocent Lamb of God, silently bearing the sins of the world.
• Pilate's Astonishment: The governor's "great marvel" (Greek: *ethaumasen*) highlights the extraordinary nature of Jesus' composure. Roman courts expected defendants to vehemently defend themselves, especially when their life was at stake. Jesus' quiet dignity, His refusal to engage in argument, and His lack of self-preservation were utterly perplexing to Pilate, who likely had never encountered such a prisoner. This astonishment further testifies to Jesus' unique character and inner peace in the face of extreme injustice.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "answered him to never a word" emphasizes the complete and utter silence of Jesus. The Greek verb for "marvelled," ethaumasen (ἐθαύμασεν), conveys a deep sense of astonishment, wonder, or even awe. It signifies that Pilate was profoundly perplexed and taken aback by Jesus' unexpected and uncharacteristic response, or lack thereof. This wasn't mere surprise, but a strong emotional reaction to something truly remarkable.

Practical Application

Jesus' silence in Matthew 27:14 offers profound lessons for believers today:

• Trust in Divine Sovereignty: Jesus' example teaches us that there are times when silence, rather than a verbal defense, is the most powerful response. It demonstrates profound trust in God's ultimate plan and sovereignty, even when facing misunderstanding or injustice.
• Dignity Amidst Adversity: Jesus maintained His dignity and focus on His divine mission, refusing to be drawn into futile arguments or to defend Himself against false accusations. This teaches us to respond with grace and composure, allowing our character and God's truth to speak for themselves.
• The Power of Restraint: Not every accusation requires a response. Sometimes, silence is a more potent witness than words, reflecting the principle seen in 1 Peter 2:23, where Peter notes that Christ "when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously."