The Silence of Jesus: Seven Reasons and Seven Sayings

In Matt 27:11-14, Matthew emphasizes Jesus' silence before Pilate and His accusers. Why was Jesus silent? Why no answer? In the face of false accusations, a trial for His life, in spite of His innocence when He could have liberated Himself, why would the long expected Prophet be silent?

Earl Blackburn was right in seeing the meditation and reflection on this question as medicine for the soul. And this sermon is largely taken from his sermon on the subject (with his permission!).

I. When Jesus Did Not Speak: Seven Reasons for Jesus's Silence
---1) His Holy Life Had Already Spoken
---2) To Fulfill the Prophecy of God
---3) To Identify With Transgressors
---4) In Obedience to His Father
---5) Some Men Do Not Deserve an Answer
---6) Was Preparing to Make Atonement for Sin
---7) So All the Redeemed Will Not Stand in Silent Shame before God
II. When Jesus Did Speak: Seven Sayings from Cross
---1) "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do." (Lk 23:34)
---2) "Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise." (Lk 23:43)
---3) "Woman, behold your son! … Behold you mother!" (Jn 19:26-27)
---4) "My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?" (Mt 27:46)
---5) "I thirst!" (Jn 19:28)
---6) "It is finished!" (Jn 19:30)
---7) "Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit." (Lk 23:46)
III. So We Should Speak