Matthew 22:21 Meaning and Explanation
“They say unto him, Caesar’s. Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s; and unto God the things that are God’s.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Jesus answers: give Caesar what bears his image, and give God what bears His.
What Does Matthew 22:21 Mean?
They answer "Caesar's," and the trap collapses. "Render" means to give back what is owed: the coin, stamped with Caesar's likeness, may go back to Caesar; the things of God -- and you, who bear the likeness of God -- must be given to God.
In one sentence Jesus honors lawful obligations without surrendering the soul's allegiance. Caesar may claim coins; he may not claim hearts, worship, or conscience, for those bear another Image. The saying still searches us: it is possible to pay every earthly debt and withhold the one thing stamped with the likeness of God -- ourselves. "Ye are not your own" (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).
Matthew 22:21 in the Original Language
apodidomi (ἀποδίδωμι), 'render' -- to give back, to pay what is owed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Matthew 22:21
What does Matthew 22:21 mean?
Jesus answers: give Caesar what bears his image, and give God what bears His.