Yesterday, we saw how Peter answered those who questioned whether he was “one of them”, a follower of Jesus. We noted how, on three occasions, he denied even knowing Jesus. We admitted that we, too, have done the same kind of thing, many times.
However, there are those times when silence is the best answer. There are times when others ask us questions that either have no answer, or that are asked insincerely, and don’t deserve an answer.
Such was the case when Jesus was being asked questions by His accusers. Prophesy! Who is it that struck you? (Luke 22:64); If you are the Messiah, tell us (Luke 22:67); Are you, then, the Son of God? (Luke 22:70). In these cases, Jesus either said nothing, or turned the question back on those asking. Though some might think that Jesus was denying Himself by not admitting directly that He was the Messiah or the Son of God, He recognized the false nature of the questions and the questioners themselves: if I tell you, you will not believe (Luke 22:67).
False questions, trick questions, questions which are asked rhetorically, as if to stump the chump, don’t require a direct answer. Jesus’ silence, or His redirected followup question, caused the questioners to question themselves, to consider their questions, their opposition, their hostility. Though this response might have made Jesus look bad, He didn’t care. His sole desire was to bear witness to the truth in such a way that even His enemies might turn and receive it.
And so today, as you deal with the questions of others, even false questions, do be prepared to give an account for the hope which is within you (1 Peter 3:16). And do not worry beforehand about what you are to say; but say whatever is given you at that time, for it is not you who speak, but the Holy Spirit (Matthew 13:11). But recognize that sometimes, the Holy Spirit will give you silence as a response, so that, in your silence, or in your speaking, you make be able to answer those who boast in outward appearance and not in the heart (2 Corinthians 5:12).
