Definition: Shew me a penny. Whose image and superscription hath it? They answered and said, Caesarâs.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Luke 20:24. It’s a really fascinating and slightly mysterious part of the story! Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Situation: Jesus is talking to two men – likely tax collectors who are accustomed to collecting money for a living. He's asking them a question about a penny. What’s the Point? This verse is about identity and recognition . It's a puzzle that highlights Jesus’ divine nature and his ability to see beyond appearances. Here’s what it suggests: “Shew me a penny.” – Jesus is asking them to show him a penny. He's essentially saying, "Show me this small piece of money." It’s a symbolic gesture - something small that represents a larger value. “Whose image and superscription hath it?” – This is the tricky part. “Image” refers to the appearance of the penny. “Superscription” means a special, unique designation or mark associated with something. It’s like a signature or a stamp. The Meaning - It's About Jesus Himself: The most common interpretation is that this phrase is about Jesus himself. “Caesar’s” – This is the crucial piece of the puzzle. “Caesar” was the Roman name for the Emperor at the time of Jesus’ ministry. It’s a symbol of authority and power. Putting it Together: The phrase isn't about the penny itself , but about Jesus acknowledging that he is the one who holds the authority – the power – to bestow this small piece. It’s saying, “I am the one who gives this.” Why is this significant? This verse is considered one of the oldest and most debated passages in the Bible. It suggests: Jesus was divine: He wasn't just a human being; he possessed a special, elevated status. He held authority over things that are easily defined by appearance: The penny represents something that can be looked at , but it doesn’t inherently hold meaning. Jesus has the power to determine its value – to bestow it. In short, Luke 20:24 is a powerful statement about Jesus' unique identity and his ability to bestow authority. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Discuss different interpretations of the meaning? Explore related biblical themes (like divine authority)?