Luke 20:24
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 20:24
24 Shew me a penny. Whose image and superscription hath it? They answered and said, Caesar's.
Chapter Context
Luke 20 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of holiness, obedience, grace. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christians needed to understand their place in the Roman world.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-47: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Luke and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Luke 20:24
24 Shew me a penny. Whose image and superscription hath it? They answered and said, Caesar's.
Analysis
Shew me a penny (ἐπιδείξατέ μοι δηνάριον, epideixate moi dēnarion)—Jesus asks for the tribute coin itself, forcing his accusers to produce it. The δηνάριον (dēnarion, denarius) was a Roman silver coin, a day's wage. By having them produce it, Jesus subtly reveals they carry Caesar's currency while questioning him about its use.
Whose image and superscription hath it? (τίνος ἔχει εἰκόνα καὶ ἐπιγραφήν, tinos echei eikona kai epigraphēn)—The εἰκών (eikōn, 'image') recalls Genesis 1:27, where humanity bears God's image. Caesar's coin bears Caesar's image; humans bear God's image. The ἐπιγραφή (epigraphē, 'inscription') proclaimed Tiberius as 'son of the divine Augustus,' an idolatrous claim that made the coin doubly offensive to Jews.
Historical Context
The denarius of Tiberius (AD 14-37) showed his profile with the inscription 'TI CAESAR DIVI AVG F AUGUSTUS' (Tiberius Caesar, son of the divine Augustus). The reverse showed a seated female figure (Pax or Livia) with 'PONTIF MAXIM' (high priest). Jews particularly objected to graven images and divine claims for Caesar.
Reflection
- Why does Jesus make them produce the coin rather than answering abstractly about taxation?
- How does the concept of bearing God's image contrast with coins bearing Caesar's image?
- What does your wallet (or digital payment methods) reveal about what 'kingdoms' you participate in?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Matthew 18:28