Matthew 26:63

Arabic 2018 (الترجمة الكاثوليكيّة (اليسوعيّة))

فظَلَّ يسوعُ صامِتًا. فقالَ له عَظيمُ الكَهَنَة: «أَستَحلِفُكَ بِاللهِ الحَيّ لَتَقولَنَّ لَنا هل أَنتَ المسيحُ ٱبنُ الله»

What Does This Mean?

In this verse from Matthew, the high priest is questioning Jesus and demanding that he declare if he is truly the Christ, the Son of God. Initially, Jesus remains silent but the high priest presses him under oath.

Explained for Children

Imagine you're playing a game with your friends and someone says, 'I swear on this important thing, tell us if you are the best player.' At first, you stay quiet, but then they ask again really seriously. That's what's happening here, but it's much more serious because Jesus is being questioned about who he truly is.

Historical Background

Matthew wrote his Gospel around 80-90 AD for a primarily Jewish-Christian audience living in the Roman Empire. This scene depicts a pivotal moment where religious leaders challenge Jesus' claims during a trial-like setting, reflecting cultural tensions between Jewish authorities and emerging Christian beliefs.

Living It Out Today

When faced with tough questions about your identity or beliefs, consider how you respond under pressure. Like Jesus, sometimes silence can be powerful until the right moment to speak up clearly comes along.

Topics

• authority
• identity
• faithfulness
• truth
• leadership
• sacrifice

Related Verses

• Mark 14:61
• John 18:37
• Psalm 2:7-9
• Acts 2:30-36
• Isaiah 53:12

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Jesus remain silent?

Jesus often used silence as a powerful form of communication, allowing his actions and the truth itself to speak volumes. His silence could be seen as a demonstration of faith in God's ultimate plan.

What was the high priest trying to establish with his question?

The high priest wanted Jesus to declare if he claimed divinity, which could have been used legally against him under Roman law or Jewish religious law at the time.

How does this relate to today's trials of faith?

This verse can remind us that in times when our beliefs are challenged, we should remain steadfast and let our actions reflect our true identity and values.

What other Biblical passages discuss being sworn under oath?

Passages like Matthew 5:34-37 talk about the importance of truthfulness even under oaths. Other verses also emphasize the seriousness of such commitments.