Definition: And when they were come, they say unto him, Master, we know that thou art true, and carest for no man: for thou regardest not the person of men, but teachest the way of God in truth: Is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar, or not?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Mark 12:14. It’s a really important question Jesus posed that gets at some fundamental principles about obedience and worship. Here's the explanation in simpler terms: The Core of the Verse: Jesus is asking a crucial question: “Master, is it right to give tribute to Caesar?” (This refers to the Roman Emperor at the time). Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And when they were come, they say unto him…” – This means people were gathered around Jesus, likely asking questions or discussing his teachings. “…we know that thou art true, and carest for no man:…” - This is where the key lies. “We know” suggests a deep understanding of who Jesus is. "Carest for no man" – This means he’s incredibly concerned with everyone, not just the people paying tribute. “…for thou regardest not the person of men, but teachest the way of God in truth.” - Jesus is teaching about God's law (the rules and principles that govern right and wrong). He emphasizes that his teachings are based on God’s word, not on what anyone wants or needs. “Is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar, or not?” – This is the core of the question. Caesar was the ruler of Rome, and giving tribute to him was a legal requirement for many people at that time. What does this verse mean? This verse speaks to several important ideas: God’s Authority: Jesus is emphasizing that God's laws are the absolute authority. We should obey God's commands, not just those of rulers or governments. True Worship: It’s about more than just following rules; it’s about worshipping God through His teachings and principles. Justice & Fairness: The verse suggests that we shouldn’t be swayed by political power and should always strive to do what is right, even when it means going against the demands of those in authority. In essence, Jesus is challenging us to prioritize God's law over worldly laws and to live a life based on His teachings. Why is this important? This question has been debated for centuries. It’s connected to themes of: Religious freedom: It reminds us that we shouldn’t be bound by laws imposed by others. Moral responsibility: It calls on us to live a life guided by God's principles, rather than by human desires or political power. Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Discuss the historical context of this passage? Connect it to other Bible verses about obedience and justice?