Mark 12:13-17

Living Bible

¹³ But they sent other religious and political leaders to talk with him and try to trap him into saying something he could be arrested for.

¹⁴ “Teacher,” these spies said, “we know you tell the truth no matter what! You aren’t influenced by the opinions and desires of men, but sincerely teach the ways of God. Now tell us, is it right to pay taxes to Rome, or not?”

¹⁵ Jesus saw their trick and said, “Show me a coin and I’ll tell you.”

¹⁶ When they handed it to him he asked, “Whose picture and title is this on the coin?” They replied, “The emperor’s.”

¹⁷ “All right,” he said, “if it is his, give it to him. But everything that belongs to God must be given to God!” And they scratched their heads in bafflement at his reply.