A Question about Taxes • Giving

What is happening in this story?

In Jesus’ time government and religion were linked closely together. Jewish people were concerned about living in a worshipful and holy manner. They were at odds with the Roman government over many things, including the Romans’ belief that emperors were gods. The Pharisees (committed to God’s laws) and Herodians (fiercely loyal to King Herod) come to trap Jesus publicly. They were not really interested in asking a question about taxes. They wanted to see which set of laws (Jewish religious laws or Roman tax laws) Jesus would say were more important. Jesus goes beyond their trap, making his divine authority clear: we are to give to God the things that are God’s.
 

Why does this story matter for kids?

Kids are familiar with the images on coins but may not be aware of the history of rulers, or government leaders, having their own images on currency as a symbol of their authority. Subject to the authority of their parents, teachers, coaches, and other caregivers, kids are aware that there are sometimes clashing authorities present in life. Jesus provides an answer to who has ultimate authority and influence over everyone made in the image of God, including us.

What is the lectionary connection?

The Season after Pentecost is also known as “Ordinary Time,” referring to “ordinal” or “counted.” We count the weeks of this longest season as well as talk about ordinary things of life, including taxes.

 

WATCH

THE VIDEO

  • KIDS AGED 10 AND YOUNGER

Today’s video is about giving. Watch the video and think about who is giving and who is not.

Watch the video below:

 

Ask kids these questions about the video:

  • How does Victor trick everyone into giving him their Halloween candy?

  • How does Leo help everyone understand what God wants us to give?

  • What do you think belongs to God?

  • How can we give gifts to God?

 
 

  • KIDS AGED 11 AND OLDER

What events are kids part of at our church? Do you know who is in charge of planning? What advice would you give them? As we watch today’s video, pay close attention to the people in charge.

Watch the video below:

 

Ask kids these questions about the video:

  • How did the “who’s in charge?” mix-up happen in the first place?

  • Who did you want to be in charge during the video?

  • What has happened when you’ve been given authority in a line at school? On the playground? At home?

  • When is it hard to be the person with authority?

 

read

the bible story

Matthew 22:15-22

The Pharisees and Herodians were in charge of religion for the Jewish people. They didn’t want Jesus to be in charge, so they tried to trick him.

Ask these questions after you read the story:

  • Jesus answered a question with a question. What do you do when someone tries to trick you?

  • Why did Jesus point out whose image was on the denarius?

  • Whose image is on coins in your country? Why?

  • Why isn’t Jesus’ image on coins?

  • What does it mean to give something to God?

wrap up with

review + prayer

Do you know that you have authority, are in charge of, things that you use? It’s up to you to take care of them and use them in loving ways. When we give God authority over our lives, we allow ourselves to be used by God in good and loving ways.

Pray together:

God, you are in charge, but we can make choices to use things in good ways. When we see this penny, help us remember that what is ours is yours. Amen.

try one or two

Follow-up activities

This week’s theme is GIVING. Rejoice in the Lord always! Part of living out our faith is rejoicing together and encouraging one another. This week, try these ways to show encouragement.

  • invisible giving

    Talk about this question: If you can’t see God, how can you “give” something to God? Do a Bible search for answers. Try these verses: Micah 6:8; Isaiah 58:9-10; and Matthew 25:38-40.

  • TAX and TITHE

    Look up two little words that have big meanings: TAX and TITHE. How are these words similar? Different? At family meals this week, talk about ways we can use our TAX and our TITHE to be good givers.

  • prayers for leaders

    Caesar was the official government ruler at the time that Jesus lived. Search online for your elected officials. Who is your mayor? Governor? Senator? Representative? Write down their names and pray for their leadership this week.

This week, our family is praying for:

Season of PentecostSalt 'n Light Kids