Twenty years ago there was a popular movie, Jerry Maguire, which made the phrase “show me the money” very popular. In our passage, Matthew 22:15-22, we find the religious leaders attempting once again to entrap Jesus by asking Him a question about paying taxes. In Jesus’ response, He stated something that is almost identical to the phrase “show me the money.” He only added one word: “Show Me the tax money.” (v. 19)

The subject of taxes was a burning issue in the days of Christ, due to the overbearing Roman Empire. In response to a foolish question, “Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?” Jesus addresses what it means for one of His followers to honor and respect God and government. As Christians we hold dual citizenship in the Kingdom of God and in the country to which we pledge our allegiance. Knowing that Christians are responsible to come under the authorities over us, both God and government, how do we hold this truth in balance and always live in a way that honors our true King, Jesus?