THE STORY OF JESUS: Mark 12:13-17
“Give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s.” (Mark 12:17)
Jesus is clever with His response, avoiding the trap of these religious leaders.
The Pharisees opposed Caesar, claiming that nothing belonged to him, only to God.
The Herodians submitted to Herod, Caesar’s appointed ruler, affirming Caesar’s right to rule.
Both of these groups could read Jesus’ statement either way.
According to the Pharisees, Caesar owns nothing, so we owe him nothing.
According to the Herodians, Caesar is in charge for now, so we owe him allegiance.
So what were Jesus’ political views?
Without claiming to be right, I suspect His views would fit with this statement, and Genesis 1.
God is the Creator and Maker of all things, but He gives responsibility to Adam to rule it for Him.
Human rulers do have the right to rule, but they are also accountable to rule God’s way.
We must submit to human rulers, and not be rebellious or defiant of their authority (Romans 13:1-7).
At the same time, we should not disobey God’s laws, even if our leaders demand it (Acts 5:28-30).
Jesus was not a rebel, nor a revolutionary in the worldly sense.
He lived like God (as Adam and Eve were created to), and He fulfilled God’s purpose.
He did not support Caesar or Herod or Pilate, but He submitted to them.
I do not have strong political ideas or hopes; actually I am doubtful about government leaders.
Not because of their political positions, but because of their human nature (which I share).
I will give to Ottawa what is Ottawa’s, but my confidence is not something I will give.
I will pray for our leaders, but I cannot join their parties.
My loyalty, my hope, my confidence, my devotion… these belong to God, and to Jesus.
Neither Trudeau nor Trump, neither Obama nor Harper, in God I trust or we are all doomed.
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, may my political activity be evident not by the sign on my lawn, but by the way that I live. I will submit to our leaders, but I will serve You and join You in living God’s way in God’s world!