Mark 12:17 Meaning and Explanation
“And Jesus answering said unto them, Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s. And they marvelled at him.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Jesus answers: render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's. His questioners marvel at him.
What Does Mark 12:17 Mean?
The trap offered two doors, rebellion or collaboration, and Jesus walks through neither. The coin carries Caesar's image; let Caesar have his coin. But the weight of the answer falls on its second clause: render "to God the things that are God's."
The coin bears Caesar's stamp, but the person bears God's. So while the tax may go to the government, the self goes to God. Jesus honors legitimate civic duty without surrendering one inch of God's claim; no earthly power may collect what belongs to heaven. "Render" means to give back what is owed: the whole of our life is a debt of love to the One whose likeness we carry.
Mark 12:17 in the Original Language
apodidomi (ἀποδίδωμι), 'render' -- to give back, to pay what is rightfully owed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mark 12:17
What does Mark 12:17 mean?
Jesus answers: render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's. His questioners marvel at him.