In the time between Christ’s entrance into Jerusalem and His trial and crucifixion, there were several interchanges with the Jewish leaders. Mark 12:13-17 is the 3rd of 6 of these controversial interactions. This account involves the Herodians, who were solidly pro-Roman in their political stance; and the Pharisees, who were very pro-Jewish, and were known for their strict adherence to the law. When these two unlikely allies come together, it should get our attention. They came together to try and trap Jesus with a question. Jesus used their question to expose their hearts and show that just as the coin used to pay the tax in their day was stamped with Caesar’s image, they too were stamped with an image of ownership. God’s image was upon them, as well as upon each of us- showing that we ought always to “render to God the things that are God’s.”

I. The Truth
II. The Trap
III. The Question
IV. The Answer