New Testament
Matthew 26:63
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But Jesus remained silent. The high priest said to him, "I command you under oath by the living God — tell us if you are the Christ, the Son of God."
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But Jesus held his peace. And the high priest answered and said unto him, I adjure thee by the living God, that thou tell us whether thou be the Christ, the Son of God.
What Matthew 26:63 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is brought before the high priest during his trial. The high priest demands that Jesus reveal whether he is the Messiah, the Son of God, while placing him under oath. Jesus chooses to remain silent, which is significant because it shows his willingness to endure suffering without defending himself. The high priest's question reflects the tension between religious authority and the truth of Jesus' identity. By invoking the living God, the high priest emphasizes the seriousness of the inquiry, expecting a direct answer. However, Jesus' silence can be interpreted as a profound statement about his mission and the nature of his kingship, which is not based on human expectations or political power. This moment highlights the conflict between earthly authority and divine truth, setting the stage for the events that follow in the crucifixion narrative.
How to apply Matthew 26:63 to your life
In moments of pressure or accusation, we can learn from Jesus' example of silence and composure. Instead of reacting impulsively, we can choose to reflect and respond thoughtfully. Trusting in God's plan can provide strength during challenging times.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Before the High Priest (Matthew 26:57–68)
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Bethlehem
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 26:63 mean?
Matthew 26:63 describes a moment during Jesus' trial where he remains silent when questioned by the high priest about his identity as the Messiah. This silence signifies his acceptance of suffering and highlights the tension between earthly authority and divine truth.
What is the significance of Jesus' silence in Matthew 26:63?
Jesus' silence in Matthew 26:63 is significant because it demonstrates his willingness to endure injustice without defending himself. It also emphasizes the nature of his kingship, which is not based on human expectations.
What does the high priest's question in Matthew 26:63 reveal?
The high priest's question in Matthew 26:63 reveals the conflict between religious authority and the truth of Jesus' identity. By invoking the living God, he underscores the seriousness of the inquiry, expecting a clear answer.
How can we apply Matthew 26:63 to our lives?
We can apply Matthew 26:63 by learning from Jesus' example of composure under pressure. In challenging situations, choosing silence and reflection instead of impulsive reactions can help us respond more thoughtfully.
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