Definition: And he saith unto them, Whose [is] this image and superscription?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important verse from Matthew 22:20. It’s a really tricky one, and it gets to the heart of how Jesus is treated in the Bible! Here's what it means, explained simply: The Basic Idea: Jesus is asking a group of disciples – specifically, Peter and John – a question about how they are being treated. He’s essentially saying, “Hey guys, you’re acting like God – you’re displaying these things – and I want to know why.” Let's unpack the parts: “And he saith unto them…” - This is Jesus speaking directly to the group. He’s addressing them with a serious tone. “…Whose [is] this image and superscription?” – This is the key part. Let’s break it down: Image: This refers to how they are displayed, what they look like. It's about their outward appearance, how they present themselves. Superscription: This is a fancy word that means "identification" or "title." Think of it as a symbolic claim – a mark of being recognized as God’s representative. So, what does it mean ? Jesus is questioning the disciples because he sees them acting like they are claiming to be God's representatives. It suggests they might be: Being worshipped: They might be excessively focused on their own importance or status. Acting like leaders: They’re perhaps trying too hard to appear important, which can lead to arrogance and pride. Showing off: They might be displaying things that suggest a belief in themselves as God's representatives – like elaborate robes, jewelry, or even physical displays of power. The Significance & Context This verse is incredibly significant because it’s a reminder about the potential for human pride and vanity. It highlights that Jesus wants to see if the disciples are truly focused on Him and his teachings, rather than on their own importance. It's a call to humility – to recognize that we are not God! In short: Jesus is asking why the disciples are acting as though they have a special relationship with God, and he wants to understand if that’s true. --- Would you like me to explain this verse in more detail? For example, would you like to know: What historical context might help us understand this question? How this verse relates to other teachings about Jesus?