"So give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s." - Matthew 22:21
This statement from Jesus is one of the most profound and thought-provoking verses in the New Testament. While it is often quoted in discussions about paying taxes, it carries far deeper implications. What does this passage truly mean for us as Christ-followers today? Let’s explore its historical context and the spiritual truths that challenge us to live with a kingdom perspective.
The Trap Set for Jesus
The words of Jesus in Matthew 22:21 came during a tense confrontation between Him and the Pharisees. They sought to trap Him with a politically charged question:
"Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar or not?"
At that time, Israel was under Roman rule, and paying taxes to the emperor was a sore subject among the Jewish people. Saying “yes” would alienate Him from His Jewish followers, who resented Roman oppression. Saying “no” would paint Him as a revolutionary in the eyes of the Roman authorities.
But instead of falling into their trap, Jesus turned the question back on them. He asked for a denarius—a Roman coin bearing Caesar’s image—and posed a question of His own:
"Whose likeness and inscription is this?"
When they answered, “Caesar’s,” Jesus delivered His famous response:
"Give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s."
On a surface level, Jesus affirmed that people should fulfill their civic duties, including paying taxes. The coin bore Caesar’s image, signifying that it belonged to the government. By saying, “Render unto Caesar what is Caesar’s,” Jesus acknowledged the legitimacy of human authority.
This teaching aligns with what the Apostle Paul later wrote in Romans 13:1-7, where he urged believers to submit to governing authorities, recognizing them as instruments of God’s order. Paying taxes, respecting laws, and contributing to society are responsibilities of every Christian.
Yet, Jesus did not stop with Caesar—He introduced a deeper spiritual truth.
What Belongs to God?
Jesus followed His statement: "Render unto God what is God’s.” This raises an important question: What belongs to God?
To answer this, we must look at Genesis 1:27, which tells us that humanity is made in the image of God (Imago Dei). Just as the denarius bore Caesar’s image and belonged to him, we bear God’s image—meaning our entire lives belong to Him.
This truth calls us to complete surrender. While we owe taxes, respect, and obedience to earthly authorities, our ultimate allegiance is to God. He doesn’t just claim a portion of our income—He claims our hearts, minds, souls, and strength.
Many people compartmentalize their lives, separating the "secular" from the "sacred." Work, finances, and citizenship belong to the earthly realm, while prayer, worship, and church belong to God. But Jesus’ teaching destroys thi