What Jesus Did : Mark 12:17 - Give God What Is His

    by Phil Ware

    Give God What Is His - Mark 12:17

    Then Jesus said to them, "Give to Caesar the things that are Caesar's. And give to God the things that are God's." The men were amazed at what Jesus said. (ERV) Full Text

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    Key Thought

    Jesus' answer was as simple as it was profound. Jesus refused to get caught in their debate, but instead placed the responsibility on each of us to decide what is "Caesar's" and what is God's. Jesus spoke with a convicting simplicity that challenged men and women to take responsibility for honoring God, for living responsibly with others, and for honoring our earthly citizenship in holy and honorable ways. Jesus' words still speak to us. What are they challenging you to do today?


    Today's Prayer

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    O Father, the responsibilities of my earthly citizenship and my heavenly one sometimes pull me in different directions. Please help me know what is "Caesar's" and what is yours! I want to live honorably in my earthly homeland and show myself a good citizen. However, dear Father, I never want to do anything that would compromise my clear allegiance to you. Give me wisdom as I seek to live as an example of your grace, your holy character, and your holy wisdom before others. In Jesus' name. Amen.


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    Today's Verses in Context


    Later, the Jewish leaders sent some Pharisees and some men from the group called Herodians to Jesus. They wanted to catch Jesus saying something wrong. The Pharisees and Herodians went to Jesus and said, "Teacher, we know that you are an honest man. You are not afraid of what other people think about you. All men are the same to you. And you teach the truth about God's way. Tell us: Is it right to pay taxes to Caesar ? Yes or no? Should we pay taxes, or should we not pay taxes?" But Jesus knew that these men were really trying to trick him. Jesus said, "Why are you trying to catch me saying something wrong? Bring me a silver coin. Let me see it." They gave Jesus a coin and Jesus asked, "Whose picture is on the coin? And whose name is written on it?" They answered, "It is Caesar's picture and Caesar's name." Then Jesus said to them, "Give to Caesar the things that are Caesar's. And give to God the things that are God's." The men were amazed at what Jesus said.

    -- Mark 12:13-17 (ERV)

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