And they came and said to him, “Teacher, we know that you are true and do not care about anyone’s opinion. For you are not swayed by appearances, but truly teach the way of God. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not? Should we pay them, or should we not? Mark 12:14
I continue my study of Mark, leaning on the Christ-Centered Exposition commentary series volume for Mark. Today, my focus is a commentary-assisted review of Mark 12:13-17. Excerpts from the commentary's third (of four) division (also based on v14):
- The title of the third division per the commentary is "The Question: Watch Out for Either/or Scenarios."
- "The Jews despised [the imperial Roman tax] because it was a constant reminder of their subjection to pagan Rome. So, if Jesus said to pay it, the people would turn on Him as a traitor, and He would be finished. On the other hand, if He said not to pay it, He could be arrested and tried by the Romans for sedition and insurrection. Silence was not an option. His enemies have trapped Him on the “horns of a dilemma,” or so they thought."
Yesterday's post encouraged us to be on guard for how flattery can trap us. Today we are warned about how others can trap believers via "either/or scenarios" that seek to expose us as sinful regardless of our choice. For example, believers might be "trapped" by those who suggest that being anti-abortion is anti-women's rights or how disagreeing with gay marriage is not loving. Stand on Truth! God please protect me from those who seek to manipulate and condemn me for my faith.
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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves, saves and protects. Thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of such blessings. My sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
