“Give therefore to the emperor
the things that are the emperor’s,
and to God the things that are God’s.”
(From Mt. 22:15-22)
Shortly after visiting my sister in Virginia, I received a notice from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation with a photo of my car.
The letter stated clearly, with substantiating evidence, that I exceeded the speed limit for a work zone, but since this was my first violation there was no monetary fine, but I could request a hearing if I so chose.
I HAD BEEN TRAPPED AND CAUGHT!!!
This text from Matthew describes the Pharisees and Herodians setting a trap for Jesus hoping he will answer incorrectly and either offend the public or disobey Roman law.
The trap is asking Jesus about paying the emperor's' poll tax knowing either "yes" or "no" causes trouble.
Jesus requests a coin inviting them to describe its' inscription.
The Pharisees and Herodians reply, "the emperor".
Jesus effectively avoids the trap by saying if it's the emperor's give it to him and as a citizen of Rome, act accordingly and obey Roman laws.
But by avoiding this trap, Jesus sets up a situation in which each person must decide what belongs to God and what belongs to Caesar.
Jesus is teaching us to thoughtfully analyze the world, fearlessly determine the result, and then morally engage in the world based on what we believe is true.
The goal of life is not just defeating the empire with a "yes or "no" answers.
The goal of life is giving to God the things that are God's which means to love people, including enemies, strive after God's kingdom and righteousness, and live in hope between now and the future.
Until the end, as citizens of heaven, our goal is continuing to pursue the way of God, gradually and completely.
Think about it: as a citizen of heaven, how are you giving to God the things that are God's?
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