Matthew 22:15-22 – The Nazarene’s Commentary: Caesar’s Things and God’s Things

Matthew 22:15-22 – Caesar’s Things and God’s Things

|| Mark 12:13-17; Luke 20:20-26

MT22:15 Now then the Pharisees departed and took counsel so that they might entrap Jesus in what he said. MT22:16 So they sent off their disciples along with Herodians[1] and asked Jesus: “Teacher, we know you are truthful[2] and you teach the way of The God in truth. You are not influenced by anyone[3] for you do not judge by the human appearance.[4] MT22:17 So, tell us your view:[5] Is it lawful to pay tax to Caesar[6] or not?” MT22:18 But Jesus, realizing their wicked [motives],[7] asked them, “Hypocrites, why do you test me? MT22:19 Show me the tax coin.” They produced to Jesus a denarius. MT22:20 So Jesus asked them, “Whose image is this on the inscription?” MT22:21 They responded: “Caesar’s.” Then Jesus told them, “So, return to Caesar the things belonging to Caesar; and, [return to] The God the things belonging to The God.”[8] MT22:22 Hearing this they wondered and departing they went away.

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[1] Herodians: This is an interesting “trap” because the Herodians were opposed to the Pharisees politically. The Pharisees do not want Jesus to know they have sent them (Mark 3:6).

[2] We know you are truthful: This is real two-faced hypocrisy.

[3] Not influenced by anyone: Or, KNX: holdest no one in awe; MON: not afraid of anyone; GDSP: (teach) regardless of the consequences.

[4] Do not judge by the human appearance: Or, RHM: thou lookest not unto the face of men; BER: you court no one’s favor; GDSP: you are impartial.

[5] Tell us your view: Or, NEB: give us your ruling on this; GDSP: give us your opinion.

[6] Pay tax to Caesar: A sensitive issue with these political moderates. Or, KJV: tribute; RIEU: capitation tax; NW: head tax.

[7] Realizing their wicked [motives]: Or, RSV: aware of their malice; RIEU: knew their evil ways.

[8] [Return to] The God the things belonging to The God: Or, RIEU: what is due God. What are these? Life. Worship.

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Preceding

Matthew 22:1-6 – The Nazarene’s Commentary: Parable of Invitation to a Marriage

Matthew 22:7-10 – The Nazarene’s Commentary: Invitations after City’s Destruction

Matthew 22:11-13 – The Nazarene’s Commentary: King’s Inspection and Marriage Garments

Matthew 22:14 – The Nazarene’s Commentary: Many Invited – Few Chosen

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