Matthew 22:17
Tell us therefore, What thinkest thou? Is it lawful to give tribute unto Cesar, or not?
Matthew 22:17 (KJV)
Context
This verse is part of a larger narrative known as the “Question of Tribute,” where the religious leaders attempted to trap Jesus in His words. They approached Him with a question about paying taxes to Caesar, hoping to either incite rebellion or discredit Jesus in front of the people.
The question was politically sensitive because it touched on the relationship between the Jewish people and their Roman occupiers. The Herodians supported paying tribute to Caesar, while the Pharisees were secretly against it, reflecting a broader Jewish sentiment that they ought to be a free people, children of God and seed of Abraham, and that only a fellow Israelite should rule over them. Caesar, being a foreigner and an idolater, was seen by many as an illegitimate ruler. The question was framed as a matter of the law of God, asking whether it was lawful according to God’s law to pay this tax.
Meaning
The Greek text uses the word “kēnsos” for tribute, referring to a poll tax or census tax paid to Rome. This detail underscores the specific nature of the tax in question and the practical dilemma Jesus faced. The question was a trap: if He said it was lawful to pay taxes, the people might see Him as siding with Rome; if He said it was not, they could accuse Him of rebellion against Roman authority.
Jesus’ response, recorded in the following verses, demonstrates His wisdom in avoiding the trap while affirming both earthly and heavenly obligations. This event is also recorded in Luke 20:22 and Mark 12:14, showing its importance in the Gospel accounts.
Application
Good Citizenship: As followers of Christ, we are called to be responsible citizens. This includes paying taxes, obeying laws, and being respectful members of society. By fulfilling our civic duties, we can contribute to the well-being of our communities.
Prioritizing Our Allegiance: While we fulfil our earthly obligations, it’s crucial to remember that our primary allegiance is to God. We must not let our earthly responsibilities distract us from seeking God’s kingdom and righteousness (Matthew 6:33). Our actions and decisions should align with God’s will, even as we navigate our earthly responsibilities.
Stewardship: In giving to God what is His, we recognize that everything we have ultimately belongs to Him. This perspective encourages us to be good stewards of the resources, talents, and time that God has entrusted to us. We should use them in ways that honour and glorify Him, seeking to advance His purposes in the world.
Reflection
Matthew 22:17 reminds us of the tension between our earthly responsibilities and our heavenly allegiance. It teaches us to be responsible citizens while maintaining our devotion and commitment to God. By giving to Caesar what is Caesar’s and giving to God what is God’s, we strive for a balanced and faithful life in service to both the earthly and heavenly realms.
