To God what is God’s

Summary

 And Jesus said to them, “Whose likeness and inscription is this?” They said, “Caesar’s.” Then he said to them, “Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” 22.20-21

Religious Pharisees hope to weaken Jesus influence with people by involving him in a political controversy regarding an unpopular Roman poll tax. To pay or not to pay, that is the question. If Jesus affirms payment he is encouraging a sign of submission to the oppressive Roman government. If he discourages payment Jesus could be accused of treason. Politics and worship have often had a muddy relationship. Errors are made when they are joined as equals or completely divorced from each other.  Jesus response transcends the original question and does not afford his opponents an opportunity to divide his following. Jesus both affirms the role of earthy governments “render to Caesar” while reminding everyone there is one supreme ruler over universe. While the coin is made by Caesar with his image on it and belongs to him; people are made in the image of God. All that we have and all that we are belongs to Him.

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