By Jeff Larson, The Back Pew
“Jesus’ statement to render unto Caesar what is Caesar’s and unto God what is God’s is not a proof text for separation of church and state. Some read the text and set up a false dichotomy, arguing that our Lord was saying the state has authority over certain things, such as politics, while God has authority over certain things, such as our religious obligations. Quite the contrary, God is sovereign over all. Actually, Jesus is speaking here from the lesser to the greater. He is really saying, if it is true that you have obligations to the state (Caesar), how much greater your obligations to God? Granted, church and state have different roles, but both are under God, and neither are exempt from his commands. Both owe him everything, and, therefore, both should give him earnest and complete allegiance.”
-Rev. Mark Creech
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