1. Give to Caesar what is Caesar's (15-17)

The Roman army enforced Roman peace in Israel. The Jews especially resented paying taxes to Rome. Some felt that it was disloyal to God to support such an evil system. The Pharisees were trying to entrap Jesus when they asked him about paying taxes. But their patriotism was a mask for selfishness--they did not want to give anything to anyone. Jesus exposes selfishness which wears religion as a mask.

2. Give to God what is God's (18-22)

The Roman coin bore Caesar's image and inscription, but God's image is in every person. He is our Creator. We belong to him. When we give ourselves to God, worldly power cannot control us. Jesus taug ht us that we should pay what we owe. Most importantly, we must give our hearts and our bodies to God our Creator by obeying his word and accepting his sovereignty.

Application: Lord, forgive my selfishness; help me to fulfill my human obligations and to give myself to you.
One Word: Give to Caesar; give to God