The Pharisees plot to trap Jesus in His words by asking if it is lawful to pay the tribute tax to Caesar with the denarius bearing his image and inscription of divinity. If Jesus says yes and sides with the Herodians, the majority of Jews could turn on Him. If He says no and undermines the coin, He may be guaranteeing His death at the hands of the Romans. In one brilliant statement, Jesus will both affirm the lawfulness of being subject to the governing authorities, all of which God has established, and at the same time distinguish Caesar from God.