12:13-17 They send unto him certain of the Pharisees and of the Herodians. For notes on the effort to entrap Jesus on the matter of tribute to Caesar, see Mt 22:15-22. Compare Lu 20:20-26.
12:17 They marvelled at him - At the wisdom of his answer.
12:13-17 The enemies of Christ would be thought desirous to know their duty, when really they hoped that which soever side he took of the question, they might find occasion to accuse him. Nothing is more likely to insnare the followers of Christ, than bringing them to meddle with disputes about worldly politics. Jesus avoided the snare, by referring to the submission they had already made as a nation; and all that heard him, marvelled at the great wisdom of his answer. Many will praise the words of a sermon, who will not be commanded by the doctrines of it.
