New Testament
Matthew 22:19
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"Show me the coin used to pay the tax." They handed him a denarius.
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Shew me the tribute money. And they brought unto him a penny.
What Matthew 22:19 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is asked about paying taxes, a contentious issue among the people. By asking for a coin, specifically a denarius, He highlights the importance of understanding civic responsibilities. The denarius was a common Roman coin used for tax payments, symbolizing the political authority of Rome. Jesus' request for the coin serves as a practical demonstration of His wisdom in navigating tricky questions posed by His opponents. This moment illustrates that while believers are part of God's kingdom, they also have obligations to the governing authorities. Jesus' response later in the chapter emphasizes the balance between spiritual and earthly responsibilities, teaching that one should give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God. This interaction not only reveals Jesus' authority but also encourages His followers to think critically about their roles in society and their duties as citizens.
How to apply Matthew 22:19 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize our responsibilities as citizens while maintaining our commitment to God. It reminds us to engage with societal obligations, such as paying taxes, without compromising our faith. Balancing these duties is essential for living a faithful life in a secular world.
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 22:19 teach about paying taxes?
Matthew 22:19 illustrates Jesus' perspective on civic duties, particularly regarding taxation. By asking for a coin, He emphasizes that paying taxes is a responsibility of citizens. This moment highlights the importance of fulfilling earthly obligations while also recognizing one's spiritual commitments. Jesus later clarifies that believers should give to Caesar what is due to him, reinforcing the idea that participating in society does not conflict with one's faith.
Why did Jesus ask for a denarius in Matthew 22:19?
In Matthew 22:19, Jesus asks for a denarius to demonstrate His wisdom in addressing a contentious issue about taxes. The denarius was a common Roman coin used for tax payments, symbolizing the authority of the Roman government. By requesting the coin, Jesus not only provides a practical answer to the question posed to Him but also illustrates the balance between civic responsibilities and spiritual obligations.
What is the significance of the denarius in this verse?
The denarius mentioned in Matthew 22:19 is significant because it represents the Roman government's authority and the obligation of its citizens to pay taxes. By using this coin in His teaching, Jesus highlights the reality of living under a governing authority while also pointing to the higher spiritual responsibilities believers have towards God. This duality encourages followers to navigate their roles in society thoughtfully.
How does Matthew 22:19 relate to modern civic responsibilities?
Matthew 22:19 relates to modern civic responsibilities by reminding believers that they have obligations to their government, such as paying taxes and following laws. This verse encourages individuals to engage with their society responsibly while maintaining their faith. It serves as a reminder that fulfilling civic duties can coexist with spiritual commitments, promoting a balanced approach to life in a secular world.
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