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Matthew 22:15-22
Jesus had told several parables against the Pharisees and chief priests. Matthew 22:15, NKJV states, “Then the Pharisees went and plotted how they might entangle Him in His talk.” They attempted to do this by getting Jesus’ view on the politics of the day as this would force Jesus to choose sides and alienate one people-group or another. This would go against Jesus’ own teachings to love one another and even to love your enemies (Matthew 5:43-48).
Jesus, being more wise than man, knew what they were doing. Instead of choosing sides as they had implied to Him, He gave respect to all parties involved as He replied, “Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s and to God the things that are God’s” (Matthew 22:21b).
This is an example of how Satan uses man to try to destroy Jesus.
This is a promise that God knows more than man and is smarter than man.
This is an example to treat everyone respectfully in the eyes of God.
We know that politics separates man from man – it causes arrogance, pride, self-centeredness, and even hate to rise from man’s heart. This is not a lesson to not be involved in political affairs, but to treat everyone with respect as we strive to follow in the footsteps of Jesus. We all have different views on different things, but it is the love of God working through us that leads others to Him in all aspects of life– in Christ.
Dear LORD,
Our political views are growing more and more important in today’s worldview. Please help us to keep our goals set on the teachings of Jesus and to respect others as we strive to reflect Jesus throughout the world. In Jesus name I pray, amen.