Mark 12:15
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Mark 12:15
15 Shall we give, or shall we not give? But he, knowing their hypocrisy, said unto them, Why tempt ye me? bring me a penny, that I may see it.
Chapter Context
Mark 12 is a action-oriented gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of holiness, sacrifice, wisdom. 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 provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. 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 12:15
15 Shall we give, or shall we not give? But he, knowing their hypocrisy, said unto them, Why tempt ye me? bring me a penny, that I may see it.
Analysis
Shall we give, or shall we not give? But he, knowing their hypocrisy (δῶμεν ἢ μὴ δῶμεν; ὁ δὲ εἰδὼς αὐτῶν τὴν ὑπόκρισιν)—Jesus perceived their duplicity. The noun hypokrisin (ὑπόκρισιν) originally meant stage-acting, wearing a mask. Their question feigned respect while concealing malice. Jesus' omniscience penetrated their facade (John 2:24-25).
Why tempt ye me? (τί με πειράζετε;). The verb peirazete (πειράζετε) means to test or tempt—the same word describing Satan's wilderness temptation (Mark 1:13). This wasn't honest inquiry but spiritual warfare. Bring me a penny, that I may see it (φέρετέ μοι δηνάριον ἵνα ἴδω)—Jesus' request for a denarius was brilliant: requiring them to produce Roman currency exposed their own complicity in the system they questioned. Those carrying Caesar's coins already participated in Rome's economy.
Historical Context
Jesus' demand for a denarius was masterful strategy. The denarius bore the emperor's graven image and blasphemous inscription claiming divinity—arguably violating the second commandment's prohibition of graven images (Exodus 20:4). Yet His questioners possessed these coins, revealing their own compromise. The temple had money changers precisely because Jews needed to exchange 'unclean' Roman coins for 'clean' temple currency. Jesus' request forced His opponents to publicly produce the very coin they implied faithful Jews shouldn't possess. This rhetorical move exposed their hypocrisy before answering their question.
Reflection
- What does Jesus' recognition of their hypocrisy teach about discernment regarding disingenuous questions disguised as sincere inquiry?
- How does Jesus' request for them to produce the coin expose their own participation in what they're questioning?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Mark 10:2, Ezekiel 17:2, Matthew 22:18, Luke 20:23, John 21:17, Acts 5:9