Matthew 22:21

"He asked them, “Whose is this image and inscription?”"

Key Reflection

In Matthew 22:21, Jesus presents a clever question to test the religious authorities' loyalty to both God and Caesar. By asking about an image and inscription on a coin, he prompts them to choose between their allegiance to earthly powers represented by the Roman emperor's symbols and their devotion to the one true God. This interaction highlights the tension between maintaining political loyalty under Roman occupation and upholding faith in the Jewish monotheistic tradition, setting the stage for Jesus' teachings on the dual nature of his kingship—both human and divine.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 21. Render therefore unto Caesar, etc. Caesar's image and name on the coin proved that it was his. It was proper, therefore, to give it back to him when he called for it. But while this was done, he took occasion to charge them also to give to God what he claimed. This may mean either (1) the annual tribute due to the temple-service, implying that paying tribute to Caesar did not free them from the obligation to do that; or (2) that they should give their hearts, lives, property, and influence, all to God, as his due.

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