The ethics of the tribute.
The Pharisees had hitherto questioned our Lord on points of ecclesiastical ethics, and were invariably worsted. Now they face round and assail him with the weapon of political ethics. "Is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar, or not?" Behold in the scene before us—
I. THE WISDOM OF THE SERPENT IN ITS VENOM.
1. It is seen in the question proposed.
(a) The origin of the Roman power.
(b) The manner in which that power had been used.
(c) The degree of injustice which must be sustained before a nation can legally throw off an allegiance to which it has submitted.
(d) The definition of the theocracy in the modified form in which it then existed.
(e) Besides these, many minor considerations.
2. In the confederation proposing it.
3. In the flattery in which it is conveyed.
4. In the presence in which it is urged.
II. THE WISDOM OF THE SERPENT IN THE DOVE.
1. It is seen in his exposure of his assailants' hypocrisy.
2. It is seen in his avoidance of their trap.
3. It is seen in the assignment to Caesar of his own.
4. It is seen in the assertion of the claims of God.
III. THE VENOM OF THE SERPENT IN HIS FOLLY.
1. And when they heard it they marvelled.
2. But they left him, and went their way.