New Testament
Luke 20:25
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Jesus responds to a question about paying taxes, emphasizing the importance of fulfilling both civic and spiritual responsibilities.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
He told them, "Then give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God."
And he said unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which be Caesar’s, and unto God the things which be God’s.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus responds to a question about paying taxes, emphasizing the importance of fulfilling both civic and spiritual responsibilities. By saying, "Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar," He acknowledges the authority of the government and the obligation to pay taxes. However, He also stresses the need to give to God what is rightfully His, which includes our devotion, worship, and moral obligations. This statement highlights the balance between our duties to earthly authorities and our ultimate allegiance to God. Jesus teaches that while we live in a society with laws and rulers, our primary commitment should be to God, who deserves our loyalty and service. This dual responsibility encourages believers to engage with the world while remaining faithful to their spiritual commitments.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 20:25 to your life
This verse encourages us to fulfill our responsibilities both as citizens and as followers of God. We should pay our taxes and respect laws while also prioritizing our relationship with God. It reminds us to seek a balance between our earthly duties and our spiritual commitments.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 20:25 mean?
Luke 20:25 means that Jesus is teaching about the importance of fulfilling both our civic duties, like paying taxes, and our spiritual obligations to God. He emphasizes that while we must respect earthly authorities, our ultimate loyalty belongs to God.
What is the meaning of 'Render unto Caesar' in Luke 20:25?
'Render unto Caesar' means to give to the government what is due to it, such as taxes. This phrase highlights the idea that we should respect and fulfill our responsibilities to earthly authorities.
How does Luke 20:25 apply to modern life?
Luke 20:25 applies to modern life by reminding us to fulfill our duties as citizens, like paying taxes and obeying laws, while also prioritizing our spiritual commitments and relationship with God.
What does 'give to God what belongs to God' mean in Luke 20:25?
'Give to God what belongs to God' means that we should dedicate our worship, devotion, and moral responsibilities to God. It emphasizes that our ultimate allegiance is to Him above all earthly matters.
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