Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps. 1 Peter 2:21 (NIV)
The Son of God is seated at the right hand of the Father. Nothing is impossible for Him. Our God is in heaven, and He does whatever He pleases. People with great power normally use it to make their lives more comfortable. But Jesus used His freedom to make a different choice.
1. He did not deceive
He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth (2:22).
When Jesus stood before Caiaphas, and the high priest said to Him, “Tell us if you are the Christ.” Jesus said, “Yes… [and] you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven” (Mat. 26:63-64)! Telling the truth can get you into serious trouble. The pressure to use lies and deception to save your own skin can seem overwhelming. But Jesus did not hide the truth, even from His enemies.
2. He did not retaliate
When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate (2:23).
The soldiers dressed up Jesus in a robe, gave Him a reed for a scepter, and a crown of thorns, spitting on Him and mocking Him: “Hail, king of the Jews” (Mat. 27:27-31). Think of what Jesus could have done. One word from Christ and the armies of heaven could have turned Jerusalem into a wasteland. But when they hurled insults at Him, He did not retaliate.
3. He did not threaten
When he suffered, he made no threats (2:23).
All judgment has been entrusted to the Son. He will decide the eternal destiny of every person who has ever lived. He could have threatened hell, fire, and damnation, but He made no threats.
Can you recall a time when you wanted to see change in a person’s life (who was deeply resistant to God), but you were tempted to do one of these things?
