City Life Starter

Written by Aisha Darwesh

The Word

²² When he had said these things, one of the officers standing by struck Jesus with his hand, saying, “Is that how you answer the high priest?” ²³ Jesus answered him, “If what I said is wrong, bear witness about the wrong; but if what I said is right, why do you strike me?” ²⁴ Annas then sent him bound to Caiaphas the high priest.

Aisha’s Analysis

In today’s portion of scripture, Jesus is in the process of being questioned by the high priest about His teaching. Jesus responds that what He taught about is no secret and directed the high priest to question those who have heard Jesus teach openly in the synagogue (v. 19-21).

Jesus’ response to the high priest is pure wisdom. He did not rehash everything He taught to the high priest, although I am sure He could have easily blown them all away with His sound teaching. He did not need to explain Himself. He simply pointed them to those who listened to Him. 

At this, brilliant as it was, Jesus was struck by one of the officers. 

I am astounded by Jesus’ reply. He says “If what I said is wrong, bear witness about the wrong; but if what I said is right, why do you strike me?” That makes it perfectly clear. Jesus was speaking truthfully, yet He was unjustly brutalized. 

Has that ever happened to you as a believer walking through an unsaved world? Have you ever done the right thing, and in response received a slap in the face?  That is just a reality we must face as believers. Not everyone is going to respond favorably to our new life in God, but we must carry on all the same.

For those of you who know me personally, you might have observed that I am very open about my walk with God even with people who are not “churchy.” It’s just natural for me to talk about God all the time because He’s so amazing! 

However, as I have progressed in my walk with God and with others, I have learned there are some things that are just too precious and profound to share with those who are not willing to listen. As Jesus advises in Matthew 7:6: “Do not give dogs what is holy, and do not throw your pearls before pigs, lest they trample them underfoot and turn to attack you.” 

I think that is exactly why Jesus did not share His precious and life-changing teaching with the high priest. The high priest could not perceive its value. As believers in God, we have embraced Jesus and know how truly wonderful He is. Not everyone can see that, and we must exercise discernment in sharing God’s Word and Truth. 

When you are treated unfairly or persecuted for God’s sake, take comfort in knowing that Jesus understands exactly how you feel. 

Application

Take a moment right now to simply appreciate the fact that you perceive the value of God’s Word and teaching. You wouldn’t be reading this devotional if you didn’t! That means you will not trample God’s pearls of wisdom underfoot. That means He will show you things that not everyone can know. 

Treat God’s Word like a treasure. Store it securely in the vault of your heart. Reveal it only when the occasion calls for it. Trust that God will give you discernment to know when that might be. 

Prayer

Heavenly Father, I just want to thank You from the bottom of my heart for revealing the Truth of Jesus Christ to me personally. It means the world to me. I treasure the truth of Your Word quietly in my heart. I trust You to help me express its beauty and value in Your perfect timing. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.