Quiet Time Coaching Episode 311

Something that has struck me this year in the run-up to Easter more than ever is the way in which Jesus is so restrained.
– Silent before the high priests
– Silent before Pilate
– Silent as the soldiers mocked him and were violent towards him
– Mostly silent on the cross in six hours
– Why didn’t he answer?
– He is calm, dignified and courageous – in contrast with the religious leaders, and even Peter.
– Silence is not an admission of guilt, but settled surrender
– Roman law presumed the guilt of those who refused to defend themselves

“Put your sword back in its place,” Jesus said to him, “for all who draw the sword will die by the sword. Do you think I cannot call on my Father, and he will at once put at my disposal more than twelve legions of angels? But how then would the Scriptures be fulfilled that say it must happen in this way?”

Matthew 26:52-54

Ten Thousand Angels

1.
They bound the hands of Jesus in the garden where he prayed
They led him through the streets in shame
They spat upon the Saviour so pure and free from sin
They said, “Crucify him: he’s to blame”

CHORUS
He could have called ten thousand angels
To destroy the world and set him free
He could have called ten thousand angels
But he died alone, for you and me

2.
Upon his precious head they placed a crown of thorns
They laughed and said, “Behold the king”
They struck him and they cursed him and mocked his holy name
All alone he suffered everything

CHORUS
He could have called ten thousand angels
To destroy the world and set him free
He could have called ten thousand angels
But he died alone, for you and me

3.
To the howling mob he yielded: he did not for mercy cry
The cross of shame he took alone
And when he cried, “It’s finished,” he gave himself to die
Salvation’s wondrous plan was done

CHORUS
He could have called ten thousand angels
To destroy the world and set him free
He could have called ten thousand angels
But he died alone, for you and me

– He has the strength be needs because he trusts the father. That serenity was won in the Gethsemane prayer.
– His same strength is available to me today – and you.

Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best when we learn in community.

Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here’s the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).

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“Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)

God bless, Malcolm