Whose is what?

This Sunday we looked at one of the more difficult passages in the Gospels. What makes it especially interesting is that it isn’t usually put in the list of difficult passages.

Then the Pharisees went and plotted to entrap him in what he said. So they sent their disciples to him, along with the Herodians, saying, “Teacher, we know that you are sincere, and teach the way of God in accordance with truth, and show deference to no one, for you do not regard people with partiality. Tell us, then, what you think. Is it lawful to pay taxes to the Caesar, or not?”

But Jesus, aware of their malice, said, “Why are you putting me to the test, you hypocrites. Show me the coin used for the tax.” And they brought him a denarius. Then he said to them, “Whose head is this and whose title?”

They answered, “Caesar’s.” Then he said to them, “Give therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s and to God the things that are God’s.”

When they heard this, they were amazed, and they left him and went away. (Matthew 22:15-22 NRSV)

Why is this a difficult passage? The very familiarity with this passage is part of the problem. The other part is our lack of understanding of the context. I strongly encourage you to give Dr. Diana Butler Bass’ treatment of this week’s Gospel lesson a read “Simple, but not easy.” Her writing challenges the simplistic interpretation that Jesus is saying, “Be a good citizen and pay your taxes.”

What I take from this exchange between Jesus and some Pharisees is that we can never allow empire to become a comfortable home for Christ’s church.

As always, I value your input on the sermon and I would also like to hear from anyone who would like to see video of the sermon, or even of more of the service.

“Whose is what?” St. Mark’s Presbyterian (to download, right-click and select “Save Link As . . .”)

Blessings,