Matthew 22:15-22 | Romans 13:1-7 | Gospels in Lent Track: John 21
We’ll see a number of entrapment attempts by the powers-that-be in the next two weeks. You likely know today’s pretty well. Many conclusions have been made based upon Jesus’ words about Caesar’s picture on a coin. He does seem to give a line of demarcation here in a way that is more easily discernible than many other teachings.
As pragmatic as Jesus’ command may seem (“Just pay your taxes!”), there’s more to consider than the IRS’s quickly-approaching April 15th deadline.
This is about power. The whole tension that exists since Jesus’ entrance into Jerusalem is about power. We will continue to witness human leaders grapple for it in these coming days and readings. And we’ll continue to see Jesus maneuver in alternative, unexpected ways. It’s notable for today that he doesn’t claim the power that Caesar holds. (Wouldn’t you think he would?)
“It is what it is.”
Carry on.
Matthew 22:15-22
Then the Pharisees met together to find a way to trap Jesus in his words. They sent their disciples, along with the supporters of Herod, to him. “Teacher,” they said, “we know that you are genuine and that you teach God’s way as it really is. We know that you are not swayed by people’s opinions, because you don’t show favoritism. So tell us what you think: Does the Law allow people to pay taxes to Caesar or not?”
Knowing their evil motives, Jesus replied, “Why do you test me, you hypocrites? Show me the coin used to pay the tax.” And they brought him a denarion. “Whose image and inscription is this?” he asked.
“Caesar’s,” they replied.
Then he said, “Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God.” When they heard this they were astonished, and they departed.
Romans 13:1-7
Every person should place themselves under the authority of the government. There isn’t any authority unless it comes from God, and the authorities that are there have been put in place by God. So anyone who opposes the authority is standing against what God has established. People who take this kind of stand will get punished. The authorities don’t frighten people who are doing the right thing. Rather, they frighten people who are doing wrong. Would you rather not be afraid of authority? Do what’s right, and you will receive its approval. It is God’s servant given for your benefit. But if you do what’s wrong, be afraid because it doesn’t have weapons to enforce the law for nothing. It is God’s servant put in place to carry out his punishment on those who do what is wrong. That is why it is necessary to place yourself under the government’s authority, not only to avoid God’s punishment but also for the sake of your conscience. You should also pay taxes for the same reason, because the authorities are God’s assistants, concerned with this very thing. So pay everyone what you owe them. Pay the taxes you owe, pay the duties you are charged, give respect to those you should respect, and honor those you should honor.
Prayer
God,
We humans don’t do well with power. Even Christians. Maybe especially Christians. At least not these days. At least not the ones who are in the limelight. It’s sad, God, because you sent Christ to show us exactly what to do with power.
Help me today, Lord, to do well with power. Maybe it doesn’t seem like I have much, but I do know I have some. So help me wield it well. With intentionality, with love, with compassion, with grace.
And when it’s right, help me just to give it up. Like Jesus.
By his Spirit and in his name,
Amen.