Keeping a close watch on him, they sent spies, who pretended to be sincere. They hoped to catch Jesus in something he said, so that they might hand him over to the power and authority of the governor. So the spies questioned him: “Teacher, we know that you speak and teach what is right, and that you do not show partiality but teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. Is it right for us to pay taxes to Caesar or not?”
He saw through their duplicity and said to them, “Show me a denarius. Whose image and inscription are on it?”
“Caesar’s,” they replied.
He said to them, “Then give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.”
They were unable to trap him in what he had said there in public. And astonished by his answer, they became silent. Luke 20:20-26
The conflict with the religious leaders was intense. They could not stand Jesus’ message and the preaching of good news. Their power base over the people was eroding. With amazing wisdom Jesus again answers them in a way that astonishes. He really is astonishing. When I first came to know Him, I was captivated by Jesus’ humble style, profound wisdom, compassion and power. Oh to have those feelings afresh.
What wisdom do I need from the Master today?
Jesus, I come to You, in great need of Your love and mercy, wisdom and ways. As we gather today in worship, may each of us be astonished as we remind ourselves in song of who You are and what You’ve done. May we be captivated afresh by looking into the Bible and seeing Your ways and following them. You are astonishing then, and today as well.
