Daily Scripture Threshing for Thursday, October 14, 2021
Today’s Text: Matthew 22:15-22
Key Verses: Matthew 22:21 (ESV): “Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.”
Today’s passage has been famous, over the years, for its interpretation to mean that Jesus endorsed the payment of taxes. But we can know the truth about just what Jesus means by "Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar's; and to God, the things that are God's. You must have heard about the Herodians, a very populous but unpopular Jewish political party in the days of Christ, who were non-religious supporters of Herod’s dynasty and the oppressive policies of Roman overlords. They were antagonistic to Christ’s miracles, influence, and His spiritually sound teachings because those were against their interests. The Pharisees often teamed up with them on the ground of their common hatred of Christ; even though they were a religious sect in their case. Holding onto strict observance of oral traditions and the written Law of Moses, they frowned at Jesus’ teaching and failed to admit that He was the Messiah. So, both groups joined forces to destroy Jesus.
These groups approached Jesus with a question that was not from a sincere motive. They asked because of the idols in their hearts; and the stumbling blocks of iniquity on their faces. Their plot was to put Jesus on the spot in front of the people and the gatekeepers of the law. However, like in the days of Ezekiel, God answered them according to the multitude of sin in their hearts, and the stumbling blocks of iniquity on their faces. They sought to ensnare Him before the people. For if He said, “No,” the Herodians would charge Him with treason against Rome; and if He said, “Yes,” the Pharisees would accuse Him of disloyalty to the Jewish nation, and He would lose the respect of the Jews. Instead, He drew a sharp distinction between two kingdoms: Caesar holds power over an earthly kingdom while He, the Christ is King kingdom over a different kingdom, which is heavenly and spiritual. And you should not or cannot give what is Caesar's to God.
Quote for the Day: “Real and genuine tributes are from men’s heart; not from their hands.” (Simon Olatunji)
Prayer: Dear Lord, I recognize Your dominion in my life. I deeply desire your continued reign in my heart. I renew my allegiance to You and pray that the blessed Holy Spirit would continue to enable me to love you more, in Jesus' name. Amen.
With all my love and prayers,
Rev Simon Wale Olatunji, Ph.D
The Darling Bishop (DaBishop)
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