Charles Spurgeon Commentary Matthew 27:12-14

"And when he was accused by the chief priests and elders, he answered nothing. Then saith Pilate unto him, Hearest thou not how many things they witness against thee? And he gave him no answer, not even to one word: insomuch that the governor marvelled greatly." — Matthew 27:12-14 (ASV)

This was the time for Jesus to be silent, like a sheep before her shearers. His silence astonished Pilate, as His speech had before overawed the officers sent to arrest Him (John 7:45–46). Jesus answered nothing, for He was there as His people’s representative and though He had not sinned, they were guilty of all that was falsely laid to His charge. He might have cleared Himself of every accusation that was brought against Him, but that would have left the load of guilt upon those whose place He came to take, so He answered not a word. Such silence was sublime.