Matthew 22:15-33

Entrapment Backfire

The religious leaders are plotting to entrap Jesus yet, were afraid of the people’s reactions against them if they too direct action against Jesus. So they plot to try and trip Jesus up in a way that might weaken His popularity.

Remember in the beginning of this study we reviewed the characters? Well the Pharisees strength was their complete commitment to the letter of the Law and the rejection of all that was Gentile and foreign. Well, a delegation of Pharisees approached Jesus and ask if people should pay taxes to Caesar. Here they were thinking their plotting was clever, because if Jesus directed them not to pay taxes then the Romans could be informed and take action against Him. His answer sent them away stunned with the answer they received.

Now bring in the Sadducees - remember they were almost like political competitors. They were the aristocracy who sought political power. Though these two parties were in conflict with one another they quickly united together under their mutual hate and fear of Jesus.

The group of Sadducees raised one of those hypocritical questions , a topic that was opposed by many - resurrection. Jesus rebuked them with His response. He told them God is not was, not dead but living.

So here are some tough questions that will require some review...

1 List some common elements about the stories in chapters 21-22.

The key figure is absent, the time of his return is uncertain, the servants are responsible for the master’s possessions, servants are evaluated for what they do wile the key figure is gone.

2 What specifically can I do to please Jesus while we await His return?

Be responsible and utilize the gifts and possessions he places in my care. Seek Him first and above all else. Invite as many as the Holy Spirit empowers me to. Live a kingdom minded life.