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Matthew 27:14

And he answered him to never a word; insomuch that the governor marvelled greatly.

Matthew 27:14 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse from the Bible recounts the moment when Jesus stood before the governor, Pilate, and was questioned by him. Despite the governor's inquiries, Jesus chose to remain silent, refusing to offer any defense for the accusations made against him. This action of silence from Jesus left Pilate amazed and puzzled. Some scholars interpret this silence as a deliberate decision by Jesus to fulfill his role as the sacrificial Lamb of God, remaining silent in the face of injustice and violence. It also reflects Jesus' acceptance of his fate and submission to God's plan for salvation. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of Jesus' humility, obedience, and ultimate sacrifice for the redemption of humanity.

Theological Overview

One theological interpretation of the verse where Jesus remained silent when questioned by the governor is that it fulfilled the prophecies in the Old Testament that foretold of the Messiah being led like a lamb to the slaughter without opening his mouth (Isaiah 53:7). This act of silence can be seen as Jesus willingly submitting to the will of God, knowing that his ultimate purpose was to die for the sins of humanity. It also demonstrates Jesus' humility and obedience to the Father's plan, even in the face of false accusations and unjust treatment. The governor's astonishment at Jesus' silence could be interpreted as a recognition of his divine nature and the supernatural peace that surrounded him in the midst of adversity. Furthermore, word studies on the term "marvelled greatly" could reveal the depth of the governor's amazement at Jesus' demeanor, highlighting the contrasting responses between human reason and divine wisdom.

Matthew 27:14 in other translations

American Standard Version

And he gave him no answer, not even to one word: insomuch that the governor marvelled greatly.

World English Bible

He gave him no answer, not even one word, so that the governor marveled greatly.

Douay-Rheims

And he answered him to never a word, so that the governor wondered exceedingly.

Geneva Bible (1599)

But he answered him not to one worde, in so much that the gouernour marueiled greatly.