13 They sent some Pharisees and followers of Herod to bait him, hoping to catch him saying something incriminating. 14 They came up and said, "Teacher, we know you have integrity, that you are indifferent to public opinion, don't pander to your students, and teach the way of God accurately. Tell us: Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar or not?" 15 He knew it was a trick question, and said, "Why are you playing these games with me? Bring me a coin and let me look at it." 16 They handed him one. "This engraving - who does it look like? And whose name is on it?" "Caesar," they said. 17 Jesus said, "Give Caesar what is his, and give God what is his." Their mouths hung open, speechless.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Mark 12:13-17
Commentary on Mark 12:13-17
(Read Mark 12:13-17)
The enemies of Christ would be thought desirous to know their duty, when really they hoped that which soever side he took of the question, they might find occasion to accuse him. Nothing is more likely to insnare the followers of Christ, than bringing them to meddle with disputes about worldly politics. Jesus avoided the snare, by referring to the submission they had already made as a nation; and all that heard him, marvelled at the great wisdom of his answer. Many will praise the words of a sermon, who will not be commanded by the doctrines of it.