Taxing Questions?

Context:

• The Pharisees plotted to “...entangle him in his words...”
• They sent their disciples, and the Herodians to ask a question.
• Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?

Who were the Pharisees?

• Purists of the nation who opposed Rome and all attempts by Rome to intrude into the Jewish way of life.

Who were the Herodians?

• Active supporters of the rule of Herod the Great who favored making changes with the times as dictated by Rome.

What did the Pharisees and Herodians have in common?

• Almost nothing except the desire to get rid of Jesus.

Does distaste for Jesus still create interesting alliances?

• Muslims and many in the U.S.?

Matthew 22:18-22 “...But Jesus, aware of their malice, said, “Why put me to the test, you hypocrites? Show me the coin for the tax.” And they brought him a denarius. 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.” When they heard it, they marveled. And they left him and went away...”

Mark 12:15-17 “...But, knowing their hypocrisy, he said to them, “Why put me to the test? Bring me a denarius and let me look at it.” And they brought one. And he said to them, “Whose likeness and inscription is this?” They said to him, “Caesar’s.” Jesus said to them, “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” And they marveled at him...”

Luke 20:23-26 “...But he perceived their craftiness, and said to them, “Show me a denarius. Whose likeness and inscription does it have?” They said, “Caesar’s.” He said to them, “Then render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” And they were not able in the presence of the people to catch him in what he said, but marveling at his answer they became silent...”

Was Jesus an advocate of separation of Church and State?

Does Jesus know the motives of every heart?

Is there a difference between the kingdoms of the world and the Kingdom of God?

Have you ever found yourself trying to answer questions that have been designed to entangle you in your words?

Are you easily brought into unprofitable debates?