New Testament

Mark 12:15

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this passage, Jesus is confronted by religious leaders who are trying to trap him with a question about paying taxes to the Roman government.

Author
John Mark
Written
Around AD 55-65
Genre
Gospel
Original Audience
Roman and Gentile Christians
CBTClear Bible Translation

"Should we pay, or shouldn't we?" But Jesus, knowing their hypocrisy, said, "Why do you test me? Bring me a denarius so I can look at it."

KJVKing James Version

Shall we give, or shall we not give? But he, knowing their hypocrisy, said unto them, Why tempt ye me? bring me a penny, that I may see it.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this passage, Jesus is confronted by religious leaders who are trying to trap him with a question about paying taxes to the Roman government. They ask if it is lawful to pay taxes, hoping to catch him in a controversial answer. Jesus, aware of their insincerity, asks them to bring him a denarius, a Roman coin. By doing this, he highlights their hypocrisy, as they are using Roman currency while questioning the legitimacy of Roman authority. His response emphasizes the importance of recognizing the rightful place of government and God in our lives. Jesus ultimately teaches that we should give to Caesar what belongs to him and to God what belongs to God, illustrating the balance between civic duty and spiritual obligation. This moment reveals not only the wisdom of Jesus but also the futility of trying to ensnare him in their traps, as he always sees through their intentions and responds with profound truth.

How to apply Mark 12:15 to your life

This passage encourages us to reflect on our responsibilities both to our government and to God. We should fulfill our civic duties, such as paying taxes, while also prioritizing our spiritual commitments. Balancing these responsibilities is essential for living a faithful life.

Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Mark 12:15 mean?

Mark 12:15 describes a moment when Jesus is questioned about paying taxes to the Roman government. He recognizes the hypocrisy of his questioners and uses their own currency to illustrate the balance between civic responsibilities and spiritual obligations.

What is the significance of the denarius in Mark 12:15?

The denarius is a Roman coin that symbolizes the authority of the Roman government. By asking for it, Jesus highlights the hypocrisy of those questioning him, as they are using Roman currency while challenging the legitimacy of Roman rule.

What lesson does Mark 12:15 teach about taxes?

Mark 12:15 teaches that it is important to fulfill our civic duties, such as paying taxes, while also recognizing our spiritual obligations to God. Jesus emphasizes that we should give to both the government and God what is rightfully theirs.

How does Mark 12:15 relate to hypocrisy?

In Mark 12:15, Jesus points out the hypocrisy of the religious leaders who question him about taxes while using Roman currency themselves. This moment reveals their insincerity and serves as a reminder to be genuine in our actions and beliefs.

The Book of Mark
Book Summary

The Book of Mark

Mark 1: John the Baptist and the Beginning of Jesus's Ministry

John the Baptist appears in the wilderness and preaches a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. People from Judaea and Jerusalem come to him, confess their sins, and are baptized in the river Jordan. John wears camel's hair and a leather belt and eats locusts and wild honey. He announces that someone stronger than he is coming after him and says he is not worthy to stoop down and untie his sandals. He baptizes with water, but the one coming will baptize with the Holy Ghost.

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