“The Things that are God’s” (Mark 12:13-17)
“THE THINGS THAT ARE GOD’S”
(Mark 12:13-17)
INTRODUCTION: Jesus’ enemies attempt a gotcha moment.
I. WE MUST RENDER OUR LIVES TO GOD.
II. WE MUST RESPECT GOD’S AGENTS.
III. WE MUST REALIZE GOD’S PLAN.
Questions for Family Review/Discussion:
- Have you ever been caught in a gotcha moment? Tell about it.
- What is surprising about the collaboration between Pharisees and Herodians?
- What were the possible answers Jesus could give to the question? What would have been the result of each one?
- What was the primary matter in Jesus’ response? What was secondary? Why?
- What was the implication of Caesar’s image being stamped on the coin? Whose image is stamped on you? What does that imply?
- All creatures belong to God. Why did the Jews belong to God twice over? Why do Christians belong to God twice over?
- Jesus told the parable of the tenants who plotted to kill the son of the owner. By asking Jesus this question to trap him, what were they plotting?
- Do Christians today have an obligation to pay their taxes? To obey lawful commands of the government? Why or why not? What must Christians do if required to break God’s commands? What does this mean for those in any country illegally?
- Why do you think it’s only natural for governments to demand more and more authority?
- What did the inscription on the denarius say? What claim did this make? How did Jesus’ reply answer this claim?
- What will happen to any society when more people in it truly follow Jesus?
- In what sense did Jesus’ enemies “marvel” at his answer? How will many likewise “marvel” on Judgment Day? Are you ready for Judgment Day?