Matthew 22:15–22 we find a moment when Jesus is tested on paying Caesar. This passage reveals much about his teachings and wisdom. The account of Jesus tested on paying Caesar remains relevant today.
When the enemy tries to trap you, speak truth with wisdom.
In this brief yet powerful interaction, Jesus is publicly tested with a loaded political question about paying Caesar. His answer echoes through history and challenges us today to consider where our true allegiance lies.
Matthew 22:15–22 (NASB 2020)
15 Then the Pharisees went and plotted together how they might trap Him in what He said. 16 And they sent their disciples to Him, along with the Herodians, saying, “Teacher, we know that You are truthful and teach the way of God in truth, and do not care what anyone thinks; for You are not partial to anyone. 17 Tell us then, what do You think? Is it permissible to pay a poll-tax to Caesar, or not?” 18 But Jesus perceived their malice, and said, “Why are you testing Me, you hypocrites? 19 Show Me the coin used for the poll-tax.” And they brought Him a denarius. 20 And He said to them, “Whose image and inscription is this?” 21 They said to Him, “Caesar’s.” Then He said to them, “Then pay to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s; and to God the things that are God’s.” 22 And hearing this, they were amazed; and they left Him and went away.
Who Was Jesus Speaking To?
- Pharisees and Herodians, who were political and religious opponents, joined forces to trap Jesus
- Bystanders, who witnessed His wisdom
- Us today, to teach today how to live with discernment in a politically charged world
What Happened?
- A trap was set using a divisive question: Should Jews pay taxes to a Roman ruler?
- If Jesus said “yes,” He’d lose favor with nationalistic Jews; if “no,” He could be accused of treason
- Jesus asked for a coin and used it as a teaching tool
- His response divided earthly obligation from spiritual devotion
The Mood: Confrontational, Clever, Enlightening
- The Pharisees came with malice and manipulation
- Jesus responded with wisdom and composure
- The outcome left His enemies speechless and amazed
The Principle: Discern Earthly Duty and Heavenly Allegiance
- We live in the world, but we belong to God
- Jesus didn’t dodge the issue—He transcended it when tested on paying Caesar
- His answer teaches that we bear God’s image, and therefore owe Him our whole lives
Audience Response (Then)
- The leaders who try to trap Him, but He amazed and silenced them
- They could not twist His words or trap Him in controversy about paying Caesar
- Onlookers were likely left with a more profound reverence for His divine wisdom
What This Means for Us in 2025
We face endless debates about politics, taxes, and government. Jesus reminds us:
- Give honor and respect where it’s due
- Don’t confuse national identity with Kingdom citizenship
- Your greatest allegiance is to God
- You bear His image—so live like you belong to Him
Action Steps for Today
- Pay what you owe—honestly and responsibly.
- Don’t be pulled into political traps.
- Remember whose image you bear—God’s.
- Live out Kingdom values in a divided world.
- Speak truth with both courage and wisdom.
Final Prayer
Lord, thank You for Your wisdom in every situation. Help me navigate this world with integrity and discernment. Keep my heart loyal to You while honoring the systems I live in. Let my life reflect Your image and Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Render to Caesar what is Caesar’s. But give God what belongs to Him—your whole life.
