He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; like a lamb that is led to the slaughter, and like a sheep that before its shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth.
Isaiah 53:7
Ask those who heard what I said to them; they know what I said.
John 18:19-21 – Jesus to the High Priest after his arrest
A special installment of the top3 for this Good Friday. While Jesus was on trial, he did not give a word of defense or explanation. Instead, he allowed his actions, his teaching, and the people around him to speak the truth of who he was and what he was about. And to their credit, or condemnation, they did a good job. Let’s hear from Jesus’ accusers once more on this best of Fridays.
You are not also one of this man’s disciples, are you?
John 18:17
The crowds around the arrest and sentencing asked Peter this question. To have followers is to signifying that someone is worth following. Even in Peter’s denial, others were rightly claiming Jesus’ significance.
So you are a king? you say that I am a king…
John 18:37
Pilate trying to figure out how to handle Jesus’ sentencing speaks the truth about Jesus to which Jesus agrees.
Hail, King of the Jews!
John 19:3
Those who were flogging Jesus mocked him by using his true title.
Jesus of Nazareth, the King of Jews. “What I have written, I have written” said Pilate to the religious leaders who were objecting to this description of Jesus.
John 19:19-22 –
His executioner was a primary witness of Jesus and affixed his title above his cross.
Good Friday Collect
Almighty God, we pray you graciously to behold this your family, for whom our Lord Jesus Christ was willing to be betrayed, and given into the hands of sinners, and to suffer death upon the cross; who now lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Book of Common Prayer
todd nelson 