God and Caesar (Mark 12:13–17) — A Sermon by R.C. Sproul

Summary

The sermon explores Jesus' encounter with the Pharisees and Herodians in Mark 12:13-17, where they attempt to trap him with a question about paying taxes to Caesar. Jesus, recognizing their hypocrisy, skillfully answers by stating, "Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s." The practical takeaway is to understand the distinct spheres of civil and religious authority and to honor both appropriately.