If there’s a topic of conversation to avoid at a dinner party, it would be politics. In fact, the perfect storm that often ruins polite chatter is discussing both politics and Jesus. As Christians, we tend to pick sides according to our favorite cause, pinning either the right-wing or the left-wing as unbiblical. Many even claim that Jesus exclusively endorses one political party or another. In this sermon, Pastor Tim Gaydos explores Luke 20: 19-26, and reveals how Jesus responds to the political hot-topic of early A.D. – taxes.
We see that the people of that day were oppressed under tyrannical government and they were all hoping for a revolution. Where was the man who would bring an end to all suffering, making all things new? “Jesus”, they wonder, “are you that revolutionary?”
19 The scribes and the chief priests sought to lay hands on him at that very hour, for they perceived that he had told this parable against them, but they feared the people. 20 So they watched him and sent spies, who pretended to be sincere, that they might catch him in something he said, so as to deliver him up to the authority and jurisdiction of the governor. 21 So they asked him, “Teacher, we know that you speak and teach rightly, and show no partiality, but truly teach the way of God. 22 Is it lawful for us to give tribute to Caesar, or not?” 23 But he perceived their craftiness, and said to them, 24 “Show me a denarius. Whose likeness and inscription does it have?” They said, “Caesar's.” 25 He said to them, “Then render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's.” 26 And they were not able in the presence of the people to catch him in what he said, but marveling at his answer they became silent.
The Holy Bible, English Standard Version copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Quotation information.
Tim Gaydos
Luke 20:19–26
Federal Way Church
July 24, 2011
Shoreline Church
July 24, 2011
Bellevue Church
July 24, 2011
Downtown Seattle Church
July 24, 2011
Albuquerque Church
July 24, 2011
Ballard Church
July 24, 2011
