Exposing the Hypocrites

The Gospel records that Jesus told the Pharisees to "render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar's" when questioned about the morality of paying taxes. This particular episode is often used to bolster the argument of the separation of Church and State, a principle held dear by politicians and others who think the ministers of the Gospel should stick to the spiritual realm and eschew the world of politics.

The problem with that particular argument is that it completely ignores the context of this Gospel passage. The Pharisees, now in league with their hated enemies the Herodians, are trying to trip Jesus up, desperate to catch him in his words. When Jesus asks them to show him a coin, he returns the favor and catches them in a shameful act. The inscription on the coin which bears the image of the "divine Caesar" directly violates the first commandment which states that all graven images of gods and goddesses are forbidden. Yet they are carrying such an image on their very person. This passage is, consequently, about hypocrisy and idolatry rather than involvement in the world of politics.

The Pharisees begin their interrogation of Jesus by flattering Jesus, claiming that they know him to be a wise teacher and an impartial judge. Here again the Pharisees step into their own trap. Having declared that they value Jesus' judgment, they are now doubly shamed. Not only have they attested to their admiration of Jesus' judgment, they are, as the saying goes, hung on their own petard. Such arguments between Jesus and the Jewish authorities always took place in a public forum. Those who would have heard the exchange would regard the Pharisees and their companions in disdain. They were shamed and dishonored, something which this society and its population would have avoided at all costs. Jesus continues to best them at their own game.

Fr. Lawrence Jagdfeld, O.F.M., Administrator