These verses come from a conversation between Jesus and the religious leaders of the day. They were trying to trap Jesus by asking him whether it was right to pay taxes to the Roman government, which was seen as oppressive by many Jews.
Jesus' response is significant because it shows his understanding of the role of government and the relationship between people and the state. He says that people should give to Caesar what is Caesar's, which refers to taxes and other obligations to the government. At the same time, he says that people should give to God what is God's, which refers to their worship, devotion, and obedience to God.
This response shows Jesus' teaching on the importance of fulfilling one's responsibilities to the government and to God. He encourages people to be obedient to the government while also putting their faith and devotion in God above all else.
They are a reminder of the importance of balancing our responsibilities to the government and to God. They encourage us to fulfill our obligations to the state while also putting our faith in God and seeking to follow his will above all else.
Matthew 22:17-21. "What do you think? Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?” But Jesus perceived their wickedness, and said, “Why do you test me, you hypocrites? Show me the tax money.” They brought to him a denarius. He asked them, “Whose is this image and inscription?” They said to him, “Caesar’s.” Then he said to them, “Give therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.”