15 Then the Pharisees having gone, took counsel how they might ensnare him in words, 16 and they send to him their disciples with the Herodians, saying, 'Teacher, we have known that thou art true, and the way of God in truth thou dost teach, and thou art not caring for any one, for thou dost not look to the face of men; 17 tell us, therefore, what dost thou think? is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar or not?' 18 And Jesus having known their wickedness, said, 'Why me do ye tempt, hypocrites? 19 show me the tribute-coin?' and they brought to him a denary; 20 and he saith to them, 'Whose 'is' this image and the inscription?' 21 they say to him, 'Caesar's;' then saith he to them, 'Render therefore the things of Caesar to Caesar, and the things of God to God;' 22 and having heard they wondered, and having left him they went away.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Matthew 22:15-22
Commentary on Matthew 22:15-22
(Read Matthew 22:15-22)
The Pharisees sent their disciples with the Herodians, a party among the Jews, who were for full subjection to the Roman emperor. Though opposed to each other, they joined against Christ. What they said of Christ was right; whether they knew it or not, blessed be God we know it. Jesus Christ was a faithful Teacher, and a bold reprover. Christ saw their wickedness. Whatever mask the hypocrite puts on, our Lord Jesus sees through it. Christ did not interpose as a judge in matters of this nature, for his kingdom is not of this world, but he enjoins peaceable subjection to the powers that be. His adversaries were reproved, and his disciples were taught that the Christian religion is no enemy to civil government. Christ is, and will be, the wonder, not only of his friends, but of his enemies. They admire his wisdom, but will not be guided by it; his power, but will not submit to it.