Matthew 22:16

And they sent out unto him their disciples with the Herodians, saying, Master, we know that thou art true, and teachest the way of God in truth, neither carest thou for any man: for thou regardest not the person of men.

Matthew 22:16 (KJV)

Context

This verse records the opening of a carefully planned trap. The Pharisees, a religious party that resisted Roman rule, joined with the Herodians, a political group that supported Herod’s family and Roman authority. These groups were normally at odds, yet they united against Jesus. Their alliance shows how determined the religious leaders were to catch Him in His words.

The immediate question concerned paying taxes to Caesar (Matthew 22:17). By sending their disciples along with the Herodians, the Pharisees hoped to make Jesus’ answer politically dangerous. If He said to pay, He might lose favor with the Jewish people; if He said not to pay, He could be accused of rebellion against Rome.

Meaning

The flattering address in this verse is striking. The speakers call Jesus “Master” and declare, “we know that thou art true, and teachest the way of God in truth, neither carest thou for any man: for thou regardest not the person of men.” The Greek terms confirm the force of their words: Jesus is true (alēthēs), teaches the way of God in truth (en alētheia), and does not look at the face of men (ou blepeis eis prosōpon anthrōpōn), an idiom for showing partiality.

Their statement was insincere, yet it testified to Jesus’ character. Even His enemies acknowledged His truthfulness, His faithful teaching, and His impartiality. He was not swayed by human status, popular opinion, or political pressure. This recognition came from those who sought to destroy Him, making their confession all the more powerful.

Biblical connections

The phrase “regardest not the person of men” echoes a biblical idiom for impartiality found in Deuteronomy 10:17, 2 Chronicles 19:7, and Acts 10:34. Here, however, the opponents use it as part of a trap. Their praise was a weapon, but it also affirmed the divine character of Christ.

Application

This verse challenges us to examine our own motives when we speak about Jesus. The Pharisees’ words were correct, but their hearts were deceitful. True acknowledgment of Christ must come from a sincere heart, not from a desire to manipulate. It also encourages us to follow Jesus’ example of courage and integrity, teaching the truth without fear of human opinion.

Reflection

Jesus saw through the flattery and responded with wisdom, asking for a denarius and answering, “Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s, and unto God the things that are God’s” (Matthew 22:21, KJV). His response silenced His opponents and taught a lasting lesson about the balance between earthly and heavenly responsibilities. This event reveals both the malice of the religious leaders and the unshakable truthfulness of Christ.