#67 The Constitution | Taxation

Dr. Stephen Phinney: Yeshua said to render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's. What does that mean? Let's find out!

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Section 9 of the Constitution limits Congress’ powers of taxation, regulations, and political preferences, but it also grants Congress the power to use public funds and ensures a person will be brought before a judge in court before his or her imprisonment.

"Jesus said to them, ‘Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.’ And they marveled at Him."

Mark 12:17

THE BURDEN OF TAXATION

Many Americans, if not most, express frustration with paying taxes, often viewing them as a burden rather than a civic duty. This sentiment stems from concerns about how tax dollars are spent, with skepticism over government efficiency and transparency. The complexity of the tax system itself, coupled with the financial strain it can impose, fuels resentment. While taxes fund essential services, the disconnect between individual contributions and visible benefits can make the process feel impersonal and unfair, particularly if there are Deep State members with deep pockets. This tension reflects broader debates about the balance between personal freedom, societal responsibility, and those who spend our money.

Taxation serves as a crucial mechanism to address the needs of society, especially when individual citizens may overlook or neglect the well-being of their neighbors. While personal generosity and community support are valuable, they are often inconsistent and insufficient to sustain essential services like healthcare, infrastructure, and education. Taxes ensure that resources are allocated equitably, providing safety nets for the vulnerable and funding programs that benefit the collective good. Without a structured system of taxation, many critical needs would go unmet, leaving gaps in public welfare and social stability.

Since evil resides in all individuals until they become born again in Christ, droves of politicians have become independently wealthy by stuffing their pockets with taxpayers’ hard-earned dollars.

Our forefathers were fully aware of this misnomer; thus, they established Section 9 of the US Constitution.

Section 9 of the U.S. Constitution outlines limitations on congressional power, ensuring that the government operates within defined boundaries. From a Christ-centered perspective, this section highlights the importance of justice, humility, and the ethical use of authority, principles deeply rooted in biblical teachings.

One key provision in Section 9 is the prohibition of suspending habeas corpus (unlawful detention), except in extreme circumstances. This aligns with Christ's teaching on human dignity and justice—every person, regardless of status, deserves fair treatment. Throughout Scripture, Yeshua/Jesus ministered to those unjustly accused and marginalized, emphasizing the value of each individual before God. Ensuring legal protections reflects the biblical call to uphold justice and prevent the abuse of power.

The ban on titles of nobility is another significant principle in Section 9, reinforcing the idea that no individual should be elevated above others simply by birth or status, particularly the government officials appointed to protect the Constitution. In Christ’s ministry, He rejected hierarchy in favor of humility, declaring that "the last shall be first" (Matthew 20:16). A government free from aristocratic privilege mirrors His teaching that leadership should be marked by service rather than self-exaltation.

Additionally, the regulation of taxation and commerce speaks to the biblical principle of stewardship—managing resources wisely for the benefit of all. Just as Christ emphasized generosity and caring for the poor, responsible financial policies ensure that wealth is not hoarded by a few but used to support a just and thriving society.

Ultimately, Section 9 serves as a safeguard against tyranny, protecting citizens from unchecked power, much like Christ’s warnings against corrupt leadership. A Christ-centered approach to governance recognizes the need for justice, accountability, and humility—values that ensure power is wielded with wisdom and righteousness rather than selfish ambition. Would you like to explore how other sections of the Constitution align with biblical principles?

Money Belongs to Caesar

Money, as a creation of earthly systems, ultimately belongs to worldly leaders like Caesar, who govern its circulation, taxation, and value. Yeshua acknowledged this when He said, "Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s" (Mark 12:17, ESV), highlighting the distinction between material wealth and spiritual devotion. While governments and rulers control financial structures, true fulfillment and eternal riches are found in faith and obedience to God, whose kingdom is not built on earthly currency but on grace and righteousness.

That’s a perspective indwelt believers should hold, aligning with Yeshua’s teaching in Mark 12:17—recognizing earthly authorities and fulfilling civic responsibilities while keeping faith central. Taxes fund the infrastructure and services that sustain society, ensuring stability and care for those in need. While some may struggle with the fairness or distribution of taxes, the principle of honoring governmental obligations while prioritizing spiritual devotion remains a biblical balance. The challenge lies in navigating both earthly duties and divine allegiance with wisdom and integrity.

Render to Caesar what Caesar’s - while doing due diligence on accountability for our leaders.

Christians have a duty to approach government leaders with respect, wisdom, and a commitment to truth, recognizing that all authority exists within the framework of God's sovereignty (Romans 13:1). While honoring leadership is vital, believers are also called to hold officials accountable to the guidelines of the U.S. Constitution, ensuring that governance remains just and aligned with foundational principles of liberty and righteousness.

This means engaging in thoughtful discourse, advocating for integrity, and standing firm against policies that contradict biblical values or constitutional rights. Christ demonstrated boldness with humility, challenging unjust systems while maintaining respect for individuals. Christians should follow this example—praying for leaders, participating in civic responsibilities, and speaking truth in love, seeking a society that upholds both justice and moral responsibility.

Dr. Stephen Phinney is a theologian, author, and speaker with a passion for helping individuals discover their true identity in Christ. His extensive knowledge and compassionate demeanor make him a guiding light for those seeking to understand the depths of spiritual transformation.

Judge Mark T. Boonstra & Dr. Phinney are co-writers of the Identity Politics series. Their mission is to reestablish the founding father’s faith and commitment to building one nation under God.