Scripture Union Daily Guide 5th August 2021 Thursday Message
Topic: Dual citizenship
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Opening Prayer: Open my eyes O Lord that I might behold wondrous things from your word in Jesus name.
Scripture: Matthew 22:15-22
Question(s) for Reflection
• What is God revealing to me in this passage?
Today and tomorrow, we shall look at the encounter of Jesus with the Jewish sects: the Herodians (politicians); the Sadducees (radicals) and the Pharisees (legalists). In today’s passage, we see traditional enemies, like the Herodians and Pharisees, unite to ask Jesus questions. Notice their intention (vs.15). Although they use flowery and flattery words to try to achieve their purpose, the all-wise Jesus displays His knowledge of their deception. “Hypocrites,” he rightly calls them. When we too face similar situations, we need to seek divine wisdom (James 1:5).
The response that Jesus gave to the Pharisees’ question about paying taxes to Caesar is instructive. It reveals our dual citizenship: of the earth and of heaven. As a result, we do owe certain responsibilities to human authorities as well as to God. What are some of our responsibilities to the state (‘Caesar’ – see Romans 13:1-7 for a clear elaboration of this) and to God?
The evil scheme of the Pharisees backfired. We should ask God to help us appreciate and celebrate the gifting and uniqueness of others rather than rising in opposition against them.
• Any new insight or reinforcement of what you already know?
Closing Prayer
• Lord, grant us wisdom to know how best to serve you faithfully without shirking our responsibility to the state.
• Thank God for the suffering, death and resurrection of Jesus.
Offer a prayer of faith in line with Exodus 23:25-26; Psalms 68-69; Acts 24
Billy Graham Devotional 5th August 2021 – Love One Another
Scripture Union Daily Guide 5th August 2021. Scripture Union is an international, inter-denominational, evangelical Christian organization. It was founded in 1867, and works in partnership with individuals and churches across the world. The organization’s stated aim is to use the Bible to inspire children, young people and adults to know God
