What is the meaning of 'Render unto Caesar what is Caesar's'?

The phrase "Render unto Caesar what is Caesar's" is a well-known saying of Jesus found in the Gospel of Matthew 22:21. This statement has been the subject of much theological and philosophical debate over the centuries. To understand its meaning fully, we need to consider the context in which Jesus made this statement, the broader biblical narrative, and its implications for Christians today.

The context of this saying is crucial. In Matthew 22:15-22, the Pharisees and the Herodians, two groups with differing political and religious views, come together to trap Jesus with a question about paying taxes to the Roman emperor, Caesar. They ask, "Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?" (Matthew 22:17, ESV). This question was a trap because if Jesus answered "yes," He could be seen as supporting Roman oppression, which would alienate Him from the Jewish people who resented Roman rule. If He answered "no," He could be accused of rebellion against Rome, which could lead to His arrest.

Jesus, perceiving their malice, responds by asking them to show Him the coin used for the tax. When they bring Him a denarius, He asks, "Whose likeness and inscription is this?" They answer, "Caesar's." Jesus then delivers His famous response: "Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's" (Matthew 22:21, ESV).

At face value, Jesus' answer seems to cleverly sidestep the trap laid for Him. However, His statement carries profound theological and ethical implications that go beyond the immediate context.

First, let's consider the phrase "Render unto Caesar what is Caesar's." By acknowledging the image and inscription on the coin, Jesus implicitly recognizes the legitimacy of secular authority and the obligations that come with living under such authority. The Apostle Paul echoes this sentiment in Romans 13:1-7, where he writes that governing authorities are instituted by God, and therefore, Christians are to be subject to them and pay taxes. This acknowledgment does not mean that secular authority is absolute, but it does suggest that Christians have a responsibility to fulfill their civic duties, including paying taxes and obeying laws, as long as these do not conflict with God's commands.

The second part of Jesus' statement, "and to God the things that are God's," invites deeper reflection. While the coin bears Caesar's image and thus belongs to him, human beings bear the image of God (Genesis 1:27). Therefore, our ultimate allegiance belongs to God. This means that while we may owe certain duties to secular authorities, our primary loyalty and devotion are to God. This dual obligation creates a framework for understanding the relationship between faith and politics, church and state.

Jesus' teaching here underscores the principle of dual citizenship for Christians. We are citizens of earthly nations, with responsibilities to those nations, but we are also citizens of the Kingdom of God, with ultimate allegiance to God. This dual citizenship often requires discernment and wisdom to navigate situations where the demands of secular authorities may conflict with the commands of God.

Throughout history, this principle has been applied in various ways. For instance, during the early Christian era, believers faced persecution for refusing to worship the Roman emperor as a god, choosing instead to render worship only to God. In more recent times, figures like Martin Luther King Jr. have invoked this principle to challenge unjust laws and practices, arguing that civil disobedience is justified when secular laws conflict with divine justice.

Moreover, Jesus' statement calls us to consider what it means to render to God what is God's. This involves more than just religious observance; it encompasses our entire lives. Our time, talents, resources, and relationships are all to be offered to God in service and worship. As Paul writes in Romans 12:1, we are to present our bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is our spiritual worship.

This holistic understanding of rendering to God what is God's challenges us to integrate our faith into every aspect of our lives. It calls us to pursue justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God (Micah 6:8). It invites us to see our work, relationships, and daily activities as opportunities to honor God and advance His Kingdom.

Furthermore, Jesus' teaching here speaks to the nature of true authority. While secular rulers may wield power and demand certain obligations, ultimate authority belongs to God. This perspective can provide comfort and hope, especially in times of political turmoil or oppression. It reminds us that no earthly power is absolute, and that God's sovereignty transcends all human authority.

In addition, Jesus' response to the Pharisees and Herodians reveals His wisdom and authority. By turning their trap into a teaching moment, He demonstrates His ability to navigate complex questions with grace and truth. This invites us to trust in His wisdom and seek His guidance in our own lives, especially when faced with challenging decisions or ethical dilemmas.

In summary, the meaning of "Render unto Caesar what is Caesar's" is multifaceted and profound. It acknowledges the legitimacy of secular authority and the responsibilities that come with it, while also affirming the ultimate sovereignty of God and our primary allegiance to Him. It calls us to live as dual citizens, fulfilling our civic duties while offering our entire lives to God in worship and service. This teaching challenges us to integrate our faith into every aspect of our lives, pursue justice and mercy, and trust in God's wisdom and authority. By doing so, we honor both our earthly and heavenly citizenship, living out the fullness of our calling as followers of Christ.