Mar 12:15 | MHM | STEP | v. 15 : The question they asked was, Is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar, or not? They acted as if they wanted to know what was right, but really, they just wanted to trap Jesus. If he said yes, the people might turn against him. If he said no, the authorities could arrest him. Ministers can be trapped when asked about political matters. The people seemed to want Jesus to decide for them, but their real goal was to accuse him, no matter what he said (Mark 12:15 ). v. 15-17 : Jesus knew they were being hypocrites and trying to trick him. He asked them to show him a coin, which had Caesar’s image and name on it. He told them, Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s (Mark 12:15-17 ). This meant they should pay taxes because they used Caesar’s money and lived under his rule. But they must also give God what belongs to him—their hearts and worship. Many people are careful to give others what they owe, but forget to give God the honor he deserves. Everyone was amazed at Jesus’ wise answer, but sadly, few were moved to truly give themselves to God.

‏ Mark 12:15

v. 15: The question they asked was, Is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar, or not? They acted as if they wanted to know what was right, but really, they just wanted to trap Jesus. If he said yes, the people might turn against him. If he said no, the authorities could arrest him. Ministers can be trapped when asked about political matters. The people seemed to want Jesus to decide for them, but their real goal was to accuse him, no matter what he said (Mark 12:15 ^a).

v. 15-17: Jesus knew they were being hypocrites and trying to trick him. He asked them to show him a coin, which had Caesar’s image and name on it. He told them, Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s (Mark 12:15-17 ^b). This meant they should pay taxes because they used Caesar’s money and lived under his rule. But they must also give God what belongs to him—their hearts and worship. Many people are careful to give others what they owe, but forget to give God the honor he deserves. Everyone was amazed at Jesus’ wise answer, but sadly, few were moved to truly give themselves to God.