Render to Caesar
Christians have dual citizenship with responsibilities to both earthly authorities and God.
When asked about paying taxes to Caesar, Jesus answered, 'Give back to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's.' This teaching distinguishes between earthly and divine spheres without completely separating them. Christians are citizens of God's Kingdom but also members of earthly societies, with obligations to both. Neither total withdrawal nor complete identification with political power is appropriate. The state has legitimate functions but limited claims; God's claim is absolute. This balanced perspective has shaped centuries of Christian political theology.
Give back to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's.
Martin Luther's 'two kingdoms' doctrine developed from this teaching, distinguishing spiritual and temporal authorities while affirming Christian responsibility in both.
Gospel of Matthew