Matthew Henry Commentary Mark 12:13-17

"And they send unto him certain of the Pharisees and of the Herodians, that they might catch him in talk. And when they were come, they say unto him, Teacher, we know that thou art true, and carest not for any one; for thou regardest not the person of men, but of a truth teachest the way of God: Is it lawful to give tribute unto Caesar, or not? Shall we give, or shall we not give? But he, knowing their hypocrisy, said unto them, Why make ye trial of me? bring me a denarius, that I may see it. And they brought it. And he saith unto them, Whose is this image and superscription? And they said unto him, Caesar`s. And Jesus said unto them, Render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar`s, and unto God the things that are God`s. And they marvelled greatly at him." — Mark 12:13-17 (ASV)

The enemies of Christ wanted to appear eager to know their duty, when really they hoped that whichever side he took on the question, they might find an opportunity to accuse him. Nothing is more likely to ensnare the followers of Christ than leading them to meddle in disputes about worldly politics. Jesus avoided the snare by referring to the submission they had already made as a nation; and all who heard him marveled at the great wisdom of his answer. Many will praise the words of a sermon, who will not be governed by its doctrines.