Mark 12:14
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Mark 12:14
14 And when they were come, they say unto him, Master, we know that thou art true, and carest for no man: for thou regardest not the person of men, but teachest the way of God in truth: Is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar, or not?
Chapter Context
Mark 12 is a action-oriented gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of creation, judgment, salvation. Written during the mid first century CE (c. 65-70 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Composed during or just after Nero's persecution when eyewitnesses were disappearing.
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 21-44: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Mark and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Mark 12:14
14 And when they were come, they say unto him, Master, we know that thou art true, and carest for no man: for thou regardest not the person of men, but teachest the way of God in truth: Is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar, or not?
Analysis
Master, we know that thou art true, and carest for no man: for thou regardest not the person of men, but teachest the way of God in truth—their flattery ironically spoke truth. The Greek alēthēs ei (ἀληθής εἶ, "you are true") and ou melei soi peri oudenos (οὐ μέλει σοι περὶ οὐδενός, "you care for no one") meant Jesus wasn't swayed by public opinion or powerful interests. Though intended to manipulate, this described Jesus' authentic character: fearless truth-telling regardless of consequences.
Is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar, or not? (ἔξεστιν δοῦναι κῆνσον Καίσαρι ἢ οὔ;). The word kēnson (κῆνσον) refers to the tributum capitis, the hated Roman poll tax. The question's phrasing—"is it lawful" (exestin, ἔξεστιν)—forced Jesus to pronounce on God's law regarding Roman authority. This was theological, not merely political: does God's Torah permit supporting pagan occupation?
Historical Context
The Roman poll tax, instituted in Judea in AD 6, required annual payment of one denarius per person. This tax symbolized Jewish subjection to Rome and was deeply resented. Judas the Galilean led a violent revolt against this census tax (Acts 5:37), founding the Zealot movement that advocated armed resistance. The denarius coin bore Caesar's image and the inscription 'Tiberius Caesar, son of the divine Augustus, Augustus'—claiming divinity offensive to Jewish monotheism. Zealots refused payment, considering it idolatry and treason against God's kingship. The question's political stakes were enormous: advocating payment would brand Jesus a Roman collaborator; opposing it would invite charges of sedition (which they later pursued: Luke 23:2).
Reflection
- How does their flattering preamble illustrate that even enemies recognized Jesus' integrity and courage in speaking truth?
- What does the tax question reveal about the perceived conflict between civic duty and religious loyalty that Jesus will brilliantly resolve?
Word Studies
- Truth: ἀλήθεια (Aletheia) G225 - Truth, reality
Cross-References
- References God: 2 Corinthians 5:11, Galatians 1:10, 2:6, 1 Thessalonians 2:4
- Truth: John 7:18
- Word: 2 Corinthians 2:17
- Parallel theme: 2 Corinthians 2:2, 5:16