Luke 20:22
Is it lawfull for vs to giue tribute vnto Cesar, or no? Luke 20:22 (KJV)
The question was posed by the scribes and the chief priests to Jesus during His ministry. To understand its significance we should examine the surrounding verses and the historical background.
Luke 20:20‑26 provides the broader context: the religious leaders sent spies to trap Jesus, feigning themselves as ordinary men so that they might take hold of his words and deliver him unto the power and authority of the governor. They asked, “Master, we know that thou sayest and teachest rightly, neither acceptest thou the person of any, but teachest the way of God truly: Is it lawful for us to give tribute unto Caesar, or no?”
Jesus perceived their craftiness and said, “Why tempt ye me? Show me a penny. Whose image and superscription hath it?” They answered, “Caesar’s.” Then He said, “Render therefore unto Caesar the things which be Caesar’s, and unto God the things which be God’s.” The crowd could not take hold of his words before the people; they marveled at his answer and held their peace.
This statement emphasizes two important principles. First, recognition of civil authority: by acknowledging that the coin bore Caesar’s image, Jesus implied that it belonged to the Roman government and taught that it is appropriate to give back to the government what rightfully belongs to it, including taxes and other obligations. Second, prioritizing God’s authority: Jesus also emphasized the need to give to God what belongs to Him, reminding the Jewish people that while they were subject to Roman rule, their ultimate allegiance was to God and their spiritual obligations must take precedence.
As believers today, we are called to honor and submit to the laws of our respective governments while recognizing that our ultimate allegiance belongs to God. We should fulfill our civic duties, including paying taxes and obeying just laws, while prioritizing our spiritual responsibilities and devoting ourselves to God’s purposes.
In summary, Luke 20:22 records the question about paying tribute to Caesar, and Jesus’ response in verses 23‑25 encourages believers to honor civil authority while giving priority to God’s authority in their lives.
