Friday, August 29, 2014

As we saw in our last study the phrase “the king of the Jews” is repeated 6 times in Mark 15. It becomes an insight word or phrase, and helps you understand the chapter. Jesus affirmed this title to be true of Himself. Pilate asked Him, “Are you the king of the Jews?” and Jesus replied, “Yes, it is as you say” (vs. 2). When further accused by the priests Pilate asked Him “Aren’t you going to answer? See how many things they are accusing you of.” But Jesus made no reply. This amazed Pilate. Jesus didn’t have to defend Himself. He knew who He was. For three years He demonstrated who He was. It was everyone else who didn’t understand. No matter what He would say to them, they would resist the truth for many different reasons. Jesus knew this. Had He known that an answer would help even one come to the truth He would surely have given an answer. There is much to be learned from this example of Jesus. First, we need to know ourselves, who we are and what God’s place is for us in this world. Then we can confidently affirm who we are without feeling it necessary to defend or even explain. We also will know when to give an answer or how much of an answer to give. Remember, Jesus told His disciples that the Holy Spirit would give them the right thing to say when they are being attacked (Mark 13:11). Paul said in Romans 12:3, “Don’t think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment.” Jesus modeled this. Follow His example.