Mark 12:13-34
Read Mark 12:13-34
Helpful Background Information:
In Mark 12:13–34, Jesus is questioned by several different groups of religious leaders: the Pharisees and Herodians, the Sadducees, and finally a scribe. These groups did not agree with one another theologically or politically, but they shared a common goal; that being to discredit Jesus publicly. Because the crowds were listening closely and largely supported Jesus, the leaders could not arrest Him openly (v12). Instead, they tried to trap Him with carefully chosen questions that would turn public opinion against Him or give the authorities a reason to act.
When asked about paying taxes to Caesar, He shows that loyalty to earthly governments is a small thing when compared to our duty of devotion to God. When questioned about the resurrection by the Sadducees (a group who removed most of the Bible from their canon in order to make it less supernatural), Jesus exposes their weak view of God and their shallow reading of scripture. Finally, when a scribe asks about the greatest commandment, Jesus summarizes the entire law as love for God and love for others. By the end of the passage, Jesus has silenced His opponents. One scribe even recognizes the depth of Jesus’ answer, and Jesus tells him he is “not far from the kingdom of God.” After this, no one dares to question Him anymore.
Reflection Questions:
When Jesus says, “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s,” what does this teach us about how believers should relate to government and God today?
The Sadducees did not believe in the resurrection and accepted only the first five books of the Old Testament (the books of Moses) as authoritative.
Why do you think Jesus chose to quote Exodus 3 (God’s words to Moses at the burning bush) to prove the resurrection?
When the scribe asks about THE (singular) greatest commandment, Jesus says love for God AND love for neighbor.
Why do you think Jesus refuses to separate these “two” commands?
The scribe agrees with Jesus and affirms that love is more important than sacrifices, yet Jesus tells him he is “not far from the kingdom of God.”
“Not far from” is different from “in.” What might still be missing?