Isaiah 53:7 says, “He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before its shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth.” This verse is a prophecy about the coming of Jesus Christ and his ultimate sacrifice on the cross for the sins of the world.
The fulfillment of this prophecy is described in Acts 8:32, which says, “The eunuch was reading this passage of Scripture: ‘He was led like a sheep to the slaughter, and as a lamb before the shearer is silent, so he did not open his mouth.'”
Jesus’ silence during his trial and crucifixion was necessary for several reasons. First, it fulfilled the prophecy in Isaiah 53:7, demonstrating that Jesus was the Messiah who had been prophesied about centuries earlier. This fulfilled prophecy gave evidence to those who were seeking the truth about Jesus’ identity and mission.
Secondly, Jesus’ silence was an expression of his submission to the will of God the Father. He had said in Matthew 26:39, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.” Jesus knew that his death was part of God’s plan for the salvation of humanity, and he was willing to submit to that plan, even if it meant suffering and death.
Thirdly, Jesus’ silence was a powerful testimony to his character and nature. He did not defend himself or retaliate against those who were persecuting him, but instead, he remained silent and obedient to God. This demonstrated his love for humanity and his commitment to fulfilling God’s plan, even if it meant sacrificing himself.
The prophecy in Isaiah 53:7 about Jesus being silent like a lamb to the slaughter was fulfilled in his life and death. His silence was necessary to fulfill prophecy, to express his submission to the will of God, and to demonstrate his love and commitment to humanity. May we be encouraged by Jesus’ example of obedience and submission, and may we seek to follow in his footsteps, even in difficult and challenging circumstances.
Intentional Faith 