Citizens of Heaven

Have you ever felt caught between your faith and the world around you? Like when politics, culture, or workplace dynamics try to force you to choose sides—and your convictions are caught in the middle?

In Mark 12:13–17, Jesus finds Himself in just such a moment. The Pharisees and Herodians—two groups normally at odds—come together to trap Jesus with a question: “Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar or not?” If He says yes, He risks alienating His Jewish followers. If He says no, He risks Roman arrest.

But Jesus doesn’t take the bait.

Instead, He holds up a Roman coin and asks whose image is on it. “Caesar’s,” they reply. Then He says, “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” In one sentence, Jesus affirms the role of government and exalts the ultimate authority of God.

So what does this mean for us today?

It means we live as dual citizens—faithfully engaged in society, but fully devoted to our King. We pay our taxes. We honor laws. We respect leaders. But we never give to Caesar what belongs to God: our worship, our identity, our hearts.

This is more than political wisdom. It’s a call to remember whose image we bear. Just as Caesar’s coin bears his image, you and I bear the image of God (Genesis 1:27). That means we belong to Him. Every part of us—our choices, relationships, work, and worship—should reflect our loyalty to the Lord.

At Calvary Baptist, we’re committed to carrying hope, building intentional relationships, pursuing Jesus, and making disciples. That means we must live faithfully in our communities while never losing sight of our higher calling.

So when the world pushes you into an either/or scenario, remember Jesus’ words. You don’t have to choose between being a good citizen and a faithful Christian. Just be sure that while you give Caesar what is his, you’re giving God what is His—your whole life.

Let’s live as citizens of heaven who shine brightly in this world.