Mark 12:15-17

Mark 12:15-17: “15 But, knowing their hypocrisy, he said to them, “Why put me to the test? Bring me a denarius and let me look at it.” 16 And they brought one. And he said to them, “Whose likeness and inscription is this?” They said to him, “Caesar’s.” 17 Jesus said to them, “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” And they marveled at him.”

All authority is from God. That is why we are to honor positions of authority even when we do not agree with the person who occupies them. This is how we honor God and acknowledge that He is the One who establishes authority.

The Pharisees and Herodians attempted to trap Jesus by asking Him a question about Rome. They asked, “Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?” Jesus knew they were testing Him, so He asked for a denarius. Pointing to the coin, He asked whose image and inscription it bore. They answered, “Caesar’s.” Jesus replied, “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” Jesus honored the rightful place of civil authority while reminding them that God’s authority is supreme.

How do you view positions of authority? Do you despise them because of the bad actors who occupy them? We must separate the position from the person. God instituted authority for our good. That is why we honor the position regardless of the person who occupies it. While we must never obey commands that contradict God’s Word, we should never allow someone’s abuse of authority to produce a rebellious heart toward authority itself. Honor God by respecting the position even when you disagree with the person who holds it.

Father, forgive us for dishonoring positions of authority because of the people who occupy them. Give us the wisdom to honor those You have placed over us while remaining faithful to You whenever earthly authority conflicts with Your will. We pray this in Jesus’ name, amen.