by Rose Makero | 20 March 2022 08:46 pm03
One of the most frequently quoted statements of Jesus is:
(Luke 20:25, NIV)
“Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.”
But what did Jesus really mean by this? Does it mean we can freely participate in anything the government legalizes—like alcohol or cigarettes—since those are “Caesar’s” things? Let’s explore the context and theological implications of this passage.
In Luke 20:21–25, religious leaders tried to trap Jesus with a political question:
(Luke 20:22, NIV)
“Is it right for us to pay taxes to Caesar or not?”
Knowing their intent, Jesus asked for a coin and said in
(Luke 20:24–25, NIV)
“Whose image and inscription are on it?”
“Caesar’s,” they replied.
He said to them, ‘Then give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.’”
Here, Jesus affirmed the legitimacy of civil authority without compromising God’s authority. The coin bore Caesar’s image, meaning it belonged to him. Similarly, humans bear God’s image (Genesis 1:27), so our lives belong to God.
Jesus was referring to civil duties like paying taxes and honoring legitimate government structures.
“This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing.”
(Romans 13:6–7, NIV)
“Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue…”
Taxes fund public services such as roads, healthcare, and education. Jesus endorsed this as a good and necessary practice—not something evil.
Romans 13:1, NIV)“
Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established.”
Governments are God’s instruments for maintaining order. Therefore, laws promoting peace, justice, and public welfare are in harmony with biblical principles.
(Romans 13:4, NIV)
“The one in authority is God’s servant for your good.”
The government may permit alcohol and tobacco, but it does not require or encourage them. These substances often bring harm to health and relationships and can hinder spiritual growth.
(1 Corinthians 10:23, NIV)
“Everything is permissible”—but not everything is beneficial. “Everything is permissible”—but not everything is constructive.”
We must evaluate all actions by their spiritual fruit and impact. as the bible say in
(1 Corinthians 6:19–20, NIV)
“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit… Therefore honor God with your bodies.”
Just because something is allowed by law doesn’t mean it’s approved by God.
What Belongs to God?
When Jesus said, “…and to God what is God’s,” He pointed to a deeper spiritual truth.
if Caesar’s coin bore his image, then humans, who bear God’s image, belong to God.
(Genesis 1:27, NIV)
“So God created mankind in his own image…”
What, then, does God expect from us?
(Matthew 9:13, NIV)“
But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”
God seeks our repentance and transformed hearts, not just religious rituals.
(Matthew 23:23, NIV)
“Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees… You give a tenth… but you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy and faithfulness.”
(Romans 12:1, NIV)
“Therefore, I urge you… to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”
(John 17:17, NIV)
“Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.”
God wants us to continually grow in holiness through His Word and Spirit.
A Final Reflection
Have you truly given your life to God?
Have you repented of your sins, been baptized in the name of Jesus Christ (Acts 2:38), and received the Holy Spirit?
(Acts 2:38, NIV)
“Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”
Even if you are already saved, are you growing daily in sanctification through God’s Word?
God is more interested in your heart than your money, your offerings, or religious appearance. He wants you to turn to Him in truth.
If you’re ready to take that step, we invite you to pray, repent, and reach out for guidance. You can contact us through the number provided at the end of this message. We’ll walk with you in prayer and faith.
May the Lord bless you richly.
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