15 Then the Pharisees went and plotted together how they might trap Him in what He said . 16 And they sent their disciples to Him, along with the Herodians , saying , "Teacher , we know that You are truthful and teach the way of God in truth , and defer to no one ; for You are not partial e to any . 17 "Tell us then , what do You think ? Is it lawful to give a poll-tax to Caesar , or not?" 18 But Jesus perceived their malice , and said , "Why are you testing Me, you hypocrites ? 19 "Show Me the coin used for the poll-tax ." And they brought Him a denarius . 20 And He said to them, "Whose likeness and inscription is this ?" 21 They said to Him, "Caesar's ." Then He said to them, " Then render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's ; and to God the things that are God's ." 22 And hearing this, they were amazed , and leaving Him, they went away .
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Matthew 22:15-22
Commentary on Matthew 22:15-22
(Read Matthew 22:15-22)
The Pharisees sent their disciples with the Herodians, a party among the Jews, who were for full subjection to the Roman emperor. Though opposed to each other, they joined against Christ. What they said of Christ was right; whether they knew it or not, blessed be God we know it. Jesus Christ was a faithful Teacher, and a bold reprover. Christ saw their wickedness. Whatever mask the hypocrite puts on, our Lord Jesus sees through it. Christ did not interpose as a judge in matters of this nature, for his kingdom is not of this world, but he enjoins peaceable subjection to the powers that be. His adversaries were reproved, and his disciples were taught that the Christian religion is no enemy to civil government. Christ is, and will be, the wonder, not only of his friends, but of his enemies. They admire his wisdom, but will not be guided by it; his power, but will not submit to it.