What Jesus Did! 'Give God What Is His' — Mark 12:17

Saturday, August 31, 2024

"Well, then," Jesus said, "give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God."

His reply completely amazed [his opponents who tried to trap him].

— Mark 12:17 NLT

Key Thought

Jesus' answer was as profound as it was simple. He refused to get caught in a debate with his opponents, 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

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 before others as an example of your grace, your holy character, and your holy wisdom. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Philippians 3:20-21
  • Hebrews 13:14
  • 1 Peter 2:11-14

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Illustration

Illustration of Mark 12:17 NLT — "Well, then," Jesus said, "give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God." His reply completely amazed [his opponents who tried to trap him].

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About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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