New Testament
Matthew 22:17
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So tell us what you think: Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?"
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Tell us therefore, What thinkest thou? Is it lawful to give tribute unto Caesar, or not?
What Matthew 22:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the religious leaders are trying to trap Jesus with a question about paying taxes to Caesar, the Roman ruler. They want to see if He will say it is lawful, which could anger the Jewish people who resented Roman rule, or if He says it is unlawful, which could get Him in trouble with the authorities. This question reflects the tension between the Jewish people and their Roman oppressors. Jesus' response to this question is significant because it reveals His wisdom and understanding of the relationship between earthly authority and spiritual obligations. He ultimately teaches that while it is important to fulfill civic duties, such as paying taxes, one must also prioritize their duty to God. This interaction highlights the complexities of living in a society governed by secular laws while maintaining one's faith and values.
How to apply Matthew 22:17 to your life
This verse encourages us to consider our responsibilities both as citizens and as followers of our faith. We should fulfill our obligations to society, like paying taxes, while also ensuring that our spiritual commitments and values remain a priority in our lives. Balancing these duties is essential.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Questions in the Temple (Matthew 22:15–46)
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 22:17 mean?
Matthew 22:17 captures a moment where religious leaders question Jesus about the legality of paying taxes to Caesar. They aim to trap Him into making a statement that could upset either the Jewish people or the Roman authorities.
What is the significance of paying taxes in Matthew 22:17?
In Matthew 22:17, paying taxes symbolizes the tension between civic responsibilities and spiritual obligations. Jesus' response emphasizes that while we should fulfill our duties to the government, our ultimate allegiance is to God.
How does Matthew 22:17 relate to faith and civic duty?
Matthew 22:17 illustrates the balance between faith and civic duty by showing that believers should meet their obligations to society, like paying taxes, while also prioritizing their spiritual commitments.
What lesson can we learn from Matthew 22:17?
The lesson from Matthew 22:17 is about the importance of balancing our responsibilities as citizens with our spiritual values. It teaches that fulfilling civic duties does not negate our commitment to God.
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