In Matthew 26, Judas and the Jewish leaders were on one side of the conflict and the disciples on the other. While Jesus laid down his own life so that no one took it from Him, there were a few times in which Jesus kept silent before His accusers. They came at the very end of his life.
The chief priests and elders brought false testimony against Jesus (Matt. 26:59) and He remains silent. Matthew 26:62-63 reads, “And the high priest arose and said to Him, “Do You answer nothing? What is it these men testify against You?” But Jesus kept silent.” (Matt. 26:62-63). He was wise enough to know not to answer the accusations brought against him. At this point, there was no need for him to justify himself to the people because they were already determined to put him to death. Thus, He was led as a lamb to the slaughter (Isa. 53).
Jesus was silent in front of Pilate, the Governor. Matthew 27:13-14 has Pilate asking Him, “Do You not hear how many things they testify against You?” Jesus did not say a word. “While He was being accused by the chief priests and elders, He answered nothing”. His silence spoke volumes. It did not mean that He was guilty as He was innocent of any wrongdoing. It meant that no matter what He said, it would not be accepted. All had been said and it would only fall on deaf ears again, and again.
For us, by contrast, we are broken and guilty of sin. No one stands any taller in their boots than the next. There is little place for accusation because as soon as you start that foolishness, you condemn yourself because you’ve done the same things. In the final analysis, reconciliation, forgiveness, patience, kindness, and unfeigned love are all that is needed to share. But, the application of silence is still applicable when circumstances are similar. There’s no point to talking to people who have made up their minds and will not bend.