Connect Matthew 22:20 with Genesis 1:27 on being made in God's image. Setting the Scene • In Matthew 22:19–21 Jesus is handed a denarius and asks, “Whose image is this? And whose inscription?” (v. 20). • His question echoes Genesis 1:27: “So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.” • The coin bears Caesar’s likeness; every person bears God’s likeness. Jesus deliberately contrasts the earthly image stamped on money with the divine image stamped on humanity. Image on a Coin, Image in Humanity • Coins are mass-produced, cold metal tokens of earthly authority. • People are hand-crafted, living reflections of heavenly authority (Psalm 8:4-6). • Caesar’s image proves civic ownership; God’s image proves divine ownership (Psalm 24:1). What “Image” Signifies • Representation: We mirror God’s character—reason, creativity, moral capacity (Colossians 3:10). • Relationship: We are made for fellowship with our Creator (Genesis 3:8). • Responsibility: As image-bearers we steward creation (Genesis 1:28) and treat others with dignity (James 3:9). Give to Caesar, Give to God • Jesus concludes, “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s” (Matthew 22:21). • Money, stamped with Caesar’s image, returns to Caesar. • Lives, stamped with God’s image, return to God—heart, soul, mind, strength (Deuteronomy 6:5; Romans 12:1). Implications for Daily Life • Identity: Your worth is rooted in being God’s image-bearer, not in possessions, status, or appearance. • Sanctity of life: From the unborn (Psalm 139:13-16) to the aged, every life possesses inherent value. • Conduct: Reflect God’s holiness and love (1 Peter 1:15-16; Ephesians 5:1-2). • Service: Steward resources and talents for God’s glory, recognizing His rightful claim over all you are and have (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). • Hope: Though sin marred the image, Christ—“the image of the invisible God” (Colossians 1:15)—restores it in all who believe (Romans 8:29; 2 Corinthians 3:18). Reflections on Worth and Worship • Caesar wanted taxes; God wants the total devotion that befits His image in us. • Every time you handle money, remember the greater image you carry. • Living out God’s image draws a watching world toward the One whose likeness we bear. |
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