You have probably
heard it quoted many times that we are to, “Render to Caesar the things
that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s”. This is often
taken as instruction to submit to government authority, but I think we
sometimes overlook the significance of the latter portion of this text.
ἀπόδοτε, translated “render” in Mark 12:17 KJV, means to give back, to repay what is owed.
“The Lord owns the earth and all it contains, the world and all who live in it.” (Psalm 24:1 NET)
“All generous giving and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or the slightest hint of change.” (James 1:17 NET)
“All things were created by him, and apart from him not one thing was created that has been created.” (John 1:3 NET)
“O Lord, you are great, mighty, majestic, magnificent, glorious, and sovereign over all the sky and earth! You have dominion and exalt yourself as the ruler of all. You are the source of wealth and honor; you rule over all. You possess strength and might to magnify and give strength to all. Now, our God, we give thanks to you and praise your majestic name! But who am I and who are my people, that we should be in a position to contribute this much? Indeed, everything comes from you, and we have simply given back to you what is yours.” (1 Chronicles 29:11-14 NET)
So whatever we may owe ”Caesar”, we owe God everything!
ἀπόδοτε, translated “render” in Mark 12:17 KJV, means to give back, to repay what is owed.
“The Lord owns the earth and all it contains, the world and all who live in it.” (Psalm 24:1 NET)
“All generous giving and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or the slightest hint of change.” (James 1:17 NET)
“All things were created by him, and apart from him not one thing was created that has been created.” (John 1:3 NET)
“O Lord, you are great, mighty, majestic, magnificent, glorious, and sovereign over all the sky and earth! You have dominion and exalt yourself as the ruler of all. You are the source of wealth and honor; you rule over all. You possess strength and might to magnify and give strength to all. Now, our God, we give thanks to you and praise your majestic name! But who am I and who are my people, that we should be in a position to contribute this much? Indeed, everything comes from you, and we have simply given back to you what is yours.” (1 Chronicles 29:11-14 NET)
So whatever we may owe ”Caesar”, we owe God everything!
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