Matthew 22:15–22 · Wisdom under pressure

Whose Mark?

Caesar’s image was on the coin. God’s image is on people. Jesus shows us how to live honestly among people while belonging wholeheartedly to God.

1. A question with a hook

A loose rope loop on the floor symbolizes the Pharisees and Herodians trying to trap Jesus with a question — The question sounded polite, but it was a trap.

The Pharisees and Herodians were not normally one team. Here they joined forces to trap Jesus. If He said, “Do not pay,” they could accuse Him before Rome. If He said, “Pay,” the crowd might think He approved everything Rome did.

Michael is a fictional Junior Disciples guide; he is not a character in the Bible passage.

Jesus did not panic or choose one of their false doors. He showed a coin and asked a better question.

2. The Coin Lab

Jesus holds one Roman coin while Michael and the listeners look carefully — Jesus asked whose image and name were on the coin.

Tap to investigate Jesus’ clue.

3. God’s image is on you

Examine the coin first.

4. Choose the wise line · 1/5

Examine the coin first.

5. Truth check · 1/7

Complete all five life situations first.

Parent conversation

Which responsibilities help our family serve our neighbors honestly?
Why does God’s image on a person matter more than a ruler’s image on a coin?
Which trusted adult can a child ask for help if someone tells them to lie or sin?

God establishes authority for order, but human authority is limited. This lesson teaches neither blind obedience nor using God as an excuse to avoid honest duties. Good service does not earn salvation; it can be fruit of faith. “Obey God first” applies when a command truly requires sin, not merely when a rule feels inconvenient. Refuse wrongdoing respectfully and seek help from a trusted Christian adult.