What practical steps can we take to honor God and earthly authorities today? Seeing the Coin: Luke 20:24 in Focus “Show Me a denarius. Whose image and inscription are on it?” “Caesar’s,” they answered. (Luke 20:24) God’s Image on Us—First Allegiance • Genesis 1:27 reminds us that we bear God’s image; therefore every breath, talent, and possession ultimately belongs to Him. • Practical ways to “give to God what is God’s” (Matthew 22:21): – Start each day by submitting schedules, decisions, and resources to His lordship. – Set aside the first portion of income for kingdom purposes (Proverbs 3:9). – Guard speech, media choices, and relationships so they mirror His holiness (1 Peter 1:15-16). Caesar’s Due—Honoring Earthly Authority • Submit to governing structures because God appointed them (Romans 13:1-2). • Pay taxes without grumbling (Romans 13:6). • Pray regularly for leaders (1 Timothy 2:1-2). • Obey laws—speed limits, zoning codes, copyright—unless those laws directly contradict God’s commands (Acts 5:29). • Show respectful speech online and in person, even toward officials with whom we disagree (Titus 3:1-2). When Loyalties Collide • The pattern in Scripture: obey rulers up to the point of sin, then peacefully refuse and accept consequences (Daniel 3; Acts 5:29). • Keep a clear conscience by pre-deciding: “If forced to choose, I will obey God.” Everyday Touchpoints – Workplace: give an honest day’s labor; employers and supervisors count as earthly authorities (Ephesians 6:5-7). – Home: children honor parents as God-given leaders (Ephesians 6:1-3). – Community: vote, serve on school boards, volunteer—constructive participation respects the system God allowed to exist. – Social media: refuse slander; present truth with grace (Colossians 4:6). Living the Balance • Continual worship keeps God first. • Conscious respect keeps civic life orderly. • Together they testify that Jesus is Lord over both heaven and earth—over the image on the coin and the image in us. |
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