What is the meaning of Matthew 22:20? Whose image is this, • Jesus draws attention to the likeness stamped on the denarius, signaling ownership and allegiance. • Genesis 1:27 says, “So God created man in His own image,” reminding us that every person already bears God’s mark. • Colossians 1:15 calls Christ “the image of the invisible God,” linking the visible face on the coin to the ultimate, unseen authority of the Father revealed in the Son. • Because God’s image is on humanity, 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 adds, “You are not your own; you were bought at a price,” urging wholehearted devotion to the One whose likeness we reflect. He asked, • The simple question exposes the trap set by the Pharisees and Herodians (Matthew 22:15-17), turning their scheme into a lesson. • Proverbs 25:2 notes, “It is the glory of God to conceal a matter and the glory of kings to search it out”; Jesus, the King, reveals truth by probing hearts. • Luke 20:23-24 (parallel account) shows His discernment: “But Jesus saw through their duplicity and said to them, ‘Show Me a denarius.’” The request itself forces them to admit they carry Rome’s currency—and Rome’s authority—in their pockets. • His question-and-answer method mirrors the Father’s approach in Genesis 3:9 (“Where are you?”), inviting honest self-assessment before divine truth. "and whose inscription?" • Roman coins bore Caesar’s name and title, asserting his sovereignty; recognizing that claim sets up Jesus’ declaration in Matthew 22:21. • Mark 12:17 records the full conclusion: “Pay to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s,” balancing temporal duty with eternal loyalty. • Romans 13:1-2 grounds civil obedience in God’s providence: “There is no authority except that which is from God.” Caesar’s inscription depends on a higher inscription—God’s sovereign decree. • Revelation 22:4 looks ahead: “They will see His face, and His name will be on their foreheads.” One day, the only inscription that matters will be the Lord’s own name upon His redeemed. summary Matthew 22:20 uses the coin’s image and inscription to spotlight two realms of responsibility. Caesar’s likeness on money justifies paying taxes, while God’s likeness on people demands total surrender to Him. Recognizing both truths keeps believers faithful in civic life and, above all, loyal to the Creator whose image they bear. |
    |