Matthew 22:16 - They sent their disciples to him, along with the Herodians, saying, “Teacher, we know that you are honest, and teach the way of God in truth, no matter whom you teach, for you aren’t partial to anyone.
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What does "Matthew 22:16" mean?
This verse from Matthew 22:16 is a classic example of a trap being set for Jesus. Let's break down what's happening:
"They sent their disciples to him, along with the Herodians...": "They" refers to the Pharisees, who were often at odds with Jesus. They teamed up with the Herodians, supporters of Herod's dynasty (and thus, Roman rule). This alliance was unusual, as the Pharisees generally opposed Roman influence. Their temporary alliance shows the extent of their determination to discredit Jesus.
"...saying, “Teacher, we know that you are honest, and teach the way of God in truth, no matter whom you teach, for you aren’t partial to anyone.”": This is the bait. The questioners are attempting to flatter Jesus with insincere praise. This is a common tactic to disarm someone and get them to let their guard down. Let's examine the flattery:
"Teacher, we know that you are honest...": They acknowledge his integrity, but it's a manipulative preface.
"...and teach the way of God in truth...": They acknowledge his teaching is from God.
"...no matter whom you teach, for you aren’t partial to anyone.": This suggests he doesn't favor any group or person, implying he is unbiased and fearless.
What's the Significance?
The significance lies in the insincerity and the trap being laid. The Pharisees and Herodians are trying to trick Jesus into saying something controversial regarding Roman taxation. Here's why it's a trap:
If Jesus said it was lawful to pay taxes to Caesar: The Pharisees could then accuse him of betraying the Jewish people and aligning himself with the hated Roman oppressors. He would lose credibility with his followers.
If Jesus said it was unlawful to pay taxes to Caesar: The Herodians could then accuse him of sedition and rebellion against Rome, leading to his arrest and likely execution by the Roman authorities.
The seemingly complimentary opening is designed to make Jesus feel obligated to answer their question honestly, while in reality, they are setting him up to be condemned regardless of his response. The context of this verse is essential. It sets the stage for the famous "Render unto Caesar" response, where Jesus deftly avoids the trap.
Matthew 22:16 - They sent their disciples to him, along with the Herodians, saying, “Teacher, we know that you are honest, and teach the way of God in truth, no matter whom you teach, for you aren’t partial to anyone.
What does "Matthew 22:16" mean?
This verse from Matthew 22:16 is a classic example of a trap being set for Jesus. Let's break down what's happening:
"They sent their disciples to him, along with the Herodians...": "They" refers to the Pharisees, who were often at odds with Jesus. They teamed up with the Herodians, supporters of Herod's dynasty (and thus, Roman rule). This alliance was unusual, as the Pharisees generally opposed Roman influence. Their temporary alliance shows the extent of their determination to discredit Jesus.
"...saying, “Teacher, we know that you are honest, and teach the way of God in truth, no matter whom you teach, for you aren’t partial to anyone.”": This is the bait. The questioners are attempting to flatter Jesus with insincere praise. This is a common tactic to disarm someone and get them to let their guard down. Let's examine the flattery:
"Teacher, we know that you are honest...": They acknowledge his integrity, but it's a manipulative preface.
"...and teach the way of God in truth...": They acknowledge his teaching is from God.
"...no matter whom you teach, for you aren’t partial to anyone.": This suggests he doesn't favor any group or person, implying he is unbiased and fearless.
What's the Significance?
The significance lies in the insincerity and the trap being laid. The Pharisees and Herodians are trying to trick Jesus into saying something controversial regarding Roman taxation. Here's why it's a trap:
If Jesus said it was lawful to pay taxes to Caesar: The Pharisees could then accuse him of betraying the Jewish people and aligning himself with the hated Roman oppressors. He would lose credibility with his followers.
If Jesus said it was unlawful to pay taxes to Caesar: The Herodians could then accuse him of sedition and rebellion against Rome, leading to his arrest and likely execution by the Roman authorities.
The seemingly complimentary opening is designed to make Jesus feel obligated to answer their question honestly, while in reality, they are setting him up to be condemned regardless of his response. The context of this verse is essential. It sets the stage for the famous "Render unto Caesar" response, where Jesus deftly avoids the trap.