Expository Notes of Dr. Thomas Constable - Mark 12:14-15
The critics’ preamble was hypocritical flattery, but what they said about Jesus was true. They intended to impale Jesus on the horns of a dilemma. [Note: Hunter, p. 116.] Since Judea had become a Roman province in A.D. 6 the Romans had required the Jews to pay a yearly poll (head) tax into the emperor’s treasury. The Zealots later refused to pay it claiming that payment acknowledged Rome’s right to rule over them. The Pharisees paid it but objected strongly to it. The Herodians paid it... read more
Expository Notes of Dr. Thomas Constable - Mark 12:13-37
2. The controversy over Jesus’ teaching 12:13-37Controversy over Jesus’ authority led to controversy over His teaching. The Jewish religious leaders attacked Him three times trying to destroy His credibility and popularity. They plied Him with questions about the poll tax (Mark 12:13-17), the resurrection (Mark 12:18-27), and the greatest commandment (Mark 12:28-34). Then Jesus took the initiative and questioned them about Messiah’s sonship (Mark 12:35-37). This ended their attacks. The whole... read more