The Sermon: Matthew 22:15-22

Then the Pharisees went and plotted how to entangle him in his words. ¹⁶ And they sent their disciples to him, along with the Herodians, saying, “Teacher, we know that you are true and teach the way of God truthfully, and you do not care about anyone’s opinion, for you are not swayed by appearances. ¹⁷ Tell us, then, what you think. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?” ¹⁸ But Jesus, aware of their malice, said, “Why put me to the test, you hypocrites? ¹⁹ Show me the coin for the tax.” And they brought him a denarius. ²⁰ And Jesus said to them, “Whose likeness and inscription is this?” ²¹ They said, “Caesar’s.” Then he said to them, “Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” ²² When they heard it, they marveled. And they left him and went away.

Theme: POLITICS AND RELIGION

Summary: Two topics which often evoke strong, negative reactions. Jesus’ enemies brought up politics and religion hoping for a negative reaction from Him. Instead, what they got was a masterclass in citizenship. God’s people are dual citizens—of both an earthly country and a heavenly one. Both citizenships are gracious blessings from God. Both come with important responsibilities.

Sermon Worksheet:

Why are politics and religion often such controversial topics?

Who were the Pharisees? Who were the Herodians? Why did they want to “entangle Jesus in his words”?

How did Jesus evade the “either-or” trap of the Pharisees/Herodians?

What does Romans 13:1 teach about “governing authorities”?

Name some blessings of American citizenship:

Complete the sentence: “Being a good citizen is more than just a civic duty, it’s a part of our _______________________.”

How can we “render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s”?

How is our Heavenly election very different from a US election?

In what way is our Heavenly citizenship an act of pure grace?

Name some blessings of Heavenly citizenship:

How can we “render to God the things that are God’s”?