Luke 20:23

23 And he, having perceived their craftiness, said unto them, `Why me do ye tempt?

Luke 20:23 Meaning and Commentary

Luke 20:23

But he perceived their craftiness
Knowing what was in them, and being a discerner of the thoughts and intents of their hearts, he clearly saw that their view was either, that they might have a charge against him to the Roman governor, should he declare against payment of tribute; or that they might expose him to the people of the Jews, should he assert the lawfulness of it:

and said unto them, why tempt ye me?
with this ensnaring question.

Luke 20:23 In-Context

21 and they questioned him, saying, `Teacher, we have known that thou dost say and teach rightly, and dost not accept a person, but in truth the way of God dost teach;

22 Is it lawful to us to give tribute to Caesar or not?'

23 And he, having perceived their craftiness, said unto them, `Why me do ye tempt?

24 shew me a denary; of whom hath it an image and superscription?' and they answering said, `Of Caesar:'

25 and he said to them, `Give back, therefore, the things of Caesar to Caesar, and the things of God to God;'