Read Matthew 24:1a. Part 1
A Time to Speak And A Time To Be Silent.
There are different translations for the beginning of verse 1.
“Jesus came out from the temple and was going away….”
“Jesus left the temple and was walking away….”
“And Jesus went out and departed from the temple….”
Jesus just spent much of his time in the temple teaching and entertaining several questions from his adversaries who wanted to trap Jesus in some kind of statement so they could have him arrested. Eventually Jesus had some very harsh words to say against the religious leaders. Eventually Jesus departs and it seems to imply “enough is enough.” He has spoken and confronted the sins of the religious leaders and their hearts were very hard. It was time for Jesus to “Walk away” “depart” “go away” “leave the temple”.
In Ecclesiastes 3:7, it says, “there’s a time to be silent and a time to speak….”
Jesus spoke a lot of Truth to the religious leaders and they would not listen because their hearts were hard.
Let’s learn from Jesus because there will be a time when we will have to defend the truth of God’s word. It may be with a family member, a coworker, a stranger on the street, etc. It’s during these times we need to be prepared to defend God’s word. But as you speak, you’ll notice when the conversation is over because no matter what you say your opponent is not going to listen and will attack you; and often do so harshly. Notice the signs and end the conversation and be silent. Walk away and let your life be your testimony.
The conversation is over and silence is your best friend. To keep talking and keep talking only gives opportunity for your opponent to frustrate you to the point you end up saying things you shouldn’t say and it hurts your testimony for the Lord.
Lord God, help us know when to speak and when to be silent!
