Topical Encyclopedia The concept of tribute in the Roman context, particularly as it pertains to the decree of Augustus, holds significant historical and theological importance within the biblical narrative. The decree issued by Caesar Augustus, the first Roman Emperor, is notably referenced in the Gospel of Luke and serves as a pivotal backdrop for the nativity account of Jesus Christ.Historical Context Caesar Augustus, known for his administrative acumen and the establishment of the Pax Romana, implemented a series of censuses across the Roman Empire. These censuses were primarily for the purpose of taxation and ensuring efficient governance. The tribute, in this context, refers to the taxes levied on the provinces under Roman control. The decree for a census, as mentioned in the Gospel of Luke, was a means to register the population for taxation purposes. Biblical Reference The Gospel of Luke provides the most direct biblical reference to the decree of Augustus concerning the tribute. Luke 2:1-3 states: "Now in those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that a census should be taken of the whole empire. This was the first census to take place while Quirinius was governor of Syria. And everyone went to his own town to register." This passage highlights the administrative reach of the Roman Empire and sets the stage for the fulfillment of Messianic prophecies. The decree necessitated that Joseph and Mary travel to Bethlehem, the city of David, as Joseph was of the house and lineage of David. This journey, prompted by the Roman decree, fulfilled the prophecy found in Micah 5:2, which foretold that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem. Theological Significance From a theological perspective, the decree of Augustus and the subsequent census underscore the sovereignty of God in orchestrating historical events to fulfill divine prophecy. Despite the Roman Empire's intentions being purely administrative and economic, God's providential plan was advanced through these secular means. The decree, while a tool of Roman governance, became an instrument in the divine narrative, leading to the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem. The tribute and census also reflect the broader theme of God's people living under foreign rule, a recurring motif throughout the Scriptures. The Jewish people, under Roman occupation, were subject to the authority and decrees of the empire, yet God's purposes prevailed through these circumstances. Cultural and Political Implications The Roman tribute system, as exemplified by the decree of Augustus, illustrates the pervasive influence of Roman authority over its provinces. The census was a demonstration of Roman power and control, ensuring that all subjects were accounted for and taxed accordingly. This imposition of tribute was a constant reminder of the subjugation of the Jewish people under Roman rule, a reality that fueled messianic expectations and hopes for deliverance. In summary, the decree of Augustus for a census, as recorded in the Gospel of Luke, serves as a critical historical and theological element within the biblical narrative. It highlights the intersection of divine providence and human governance, showcasing how God's plans are fulfilled through the events of history, even those orchestrated by secular powers. Torrey's Topical Textbook Luke 2:1And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Luke's Account of the Enrollment Alexandria and Rome - the Jewish Communities in the Capitals of ... Elucidations. The Life of Christ. Chronology of the Life of Christ. Women who Witnessed the Fall of Rome John Wycliffe The Holy See and the Wandering of the Nations. The Gospel of Luke Period iii. The Dissolution of the Imperial State Church and the ... Resources What is the significance of the twelve gates in Revelation 21? | GotQuestions.orgWho is the king of the North in Daniel 11? | GotQuestions.org Who is the king of the South in Daniel 11? | GotQuestions.org Tribute: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Tribute (Taxes) by the Arabians: To Jehoshaphat Tribute (Taxes) by the Arabians: To Solomon Tribute (Taxes): from Conquered Nations Tribute: All Saints Exhorted to Pay Tribute: Christ to Avoid Offense Wrought a Miracle to Pay for Himself Tribute: Exacted from all Conquered Nations Tribute: Kings of Israel: Forbidden to Levy Unnecessary or Oppressive Tribute: Kings of Israel: Often Oppressed the People With Tribute: Kings of Israel: Set officers Over Tribute: Often Exacted in Gold and Silver Tribute: Often Exacted in Labour Tribute: Often Exacted in Produce of Land Tribute: Priests and Levites Exempted From Tribute: Roman was Paid in Roman Coin Tribute: Roman was Resisted by the Galilaeans Under Judas of Galilee Tribute: Roman: Christ Showed to the Pharisees and Herodians the Propriety Tribute: Roman: Collected by the Publicans Tribute: Roman: Decree of Augustus For Tribute: Roman: First Levied in Judea when Cyrenius Was Governor Tribute: Roman: Our Lord Falsely Accused of Forbidding to Pay Tribute: Roman: Persons Enroled For, in the Native Place of Their Tribe Tribute: Sometimes Exacted by Kings from Their own Subjects Tribute: The Jews Required to Pay Half a Shekel to God As Tribute: when Oppressive Frequently Led to Rebellion Related Terms Tribute-service (1 Occurrence) Tiglathpileser (3 Occurrences) |
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