Question about Paying Taxes

A Moment in Scripture- The Question about Paying Taxes Mk. 12:13-17 By Deacon David Hockwalt

Question about Paying Taxes. This scripture shows the greatness of Jesus. Two enemies join forces: the Herodians and the Pharisees. They try to entrap Jesus by setting up a lose-lose situation. Taxes were a hot button issue. They ask Jesus if it is lawful to pay taxes to Caesar or not? If Jesus agrees on taxation, he alienates the majority of Jews who can’t stand Roman rule. If he rejects the tax, he will be reported to the Roman authorities for instigating rebellion.

Jesus turned the lose-lose situation into a win-win. Because Caesar’s likeness is stamped on the coin for tax it should be given back to him as his rightful property. God’s image and likeness is stamped into every living person as we were created in the image of God. We have the higher duty of giving ourselves back to God by serving him. In these complex times we must discern among the likenesses who we are to give the rightful authority by whose image we are created.

Deacon David Hockwalt serves at the St. Francis of Assisi Parish in La Quinta, CA

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Question about Paying Taxes