Introduction:
The term "Caesar" in the Bible refers to the title used by Roman emperors during the time of the New Testament. It is derived from the family name of Julius Caesar and became synonymous with the Roman emperor. The title is mentioned in several contexts within the New Testament, reflecting the political and social environment of the Roman Empire during the early Christian era.

Biblical References:

1. Tribute to Caesar:
One of the most notable references to Caesar is found in the synoptic Gospels, where Jesus addresses the issue of paying taxes to the Roman authorities. In Matthew 22:17-21 , the Pharisees and Herodians attempt to trap Jesus with the question, "Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?" Jesus responds by asking for a denarius and inquires whose image is on the coin. When they answer "Caesar's," He replies, "Give to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's." This statement underscores the distinction between civic duty and spiritual obligation, emphasizing the importance of fulfilling responsibilities to both earthly and divine authorities.

2. Caesar Augustus:
In Luke 2:1 , Caesar Augustus is mentioned in the context of the decree that led to the census, which brought Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem: "In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that a census should be taken of the whole empire." This event is significant as it fulfills the prophecy of the Messiah's birth in Bethlehem, highlighting the providential role of Roman governance in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan.

3. Paul's Appeal to Caesar:
The Apostle Paul, a Roman citizen, exercised his right to appeal to Caesar when he faced charges from Jewish leaders. In Acts 25:11-12 , Paul declares, "If I am guilty of doing anything deserving death, I do not refuse to die. But if the charges brought against me by these Jews are not true, no one has the right to hand me over to them. I appeal to Caesar!" This appeal demonstrates the legal rights afforded to Roman citizens and illustrates how God used the Roman legal system to advance the Gospel, as Paul's journey to Rome became an opportunity for evangelism.

4. Caesar's Household:
In Philippians 4:22 , Paul sends greetings from "those of Caesar's household." This reference indicates that the early Christian message had reached even the inner circles of Roman authority, suggesting the pervasive and transformative power of the Gospel across social and political boundaries.

Historical Context:
The Caesars during the New Testament period included Augustus, Tiberius, Caligula, Claudius, and Nero. Each emperor's reign had varying degrees of impact on the Jewish people and the early Christian church. The Roman Empire's political structure, legal system, and extensive network of roads facilitated the spread of Christianity, despite periods of persecution.

Theological Implications:
The references to Caesar in the New Testament highlight the tension between the Kingdom of God and earthly kingdoms. Jesus' teaching on rendering to Caesar what is Caesar's and to God what is God's reflects the dual responsibilities of Christians to respect governmental authority while maintaining ultimate allegiance to God. The early church navigated these dynamics, often facing persecution yet remaining steadfast in their faith and witness.

Conclusion:
The mention of Caesar in the Bible serves as a reminder of the historical and political backdrop of the New Testament narrative. It underscores the sovereignty of God in using even secular authorities to accomplish His divine purposes and the call for believers to live faithfully within the structures of their society.

Honour to Magistrates; Or, Government from God.
... and the sword. 5 Let Cesar's due be ever paid To Cesar and his throne; But
consciences and souls were made To be the Lord's alone. ...
/.../watts/hymns and spiritual songs/hymn 0 186805556 honour to magistrates.htm

The Romance of M. Renan. By Napoleon Roussel.
... at any rate he was acquainted with his school, and probably it was in opposition
to his error that he pronounced the axiom respecting Cesar's penny. ...
/.../the romance of m renan and the christ of the gospels/the romance of m renan.htm

From the Close of the General Conference in 1796, to the ...
... work, circuits were formed, and societies established in that part of Ohio along
the banks of the Great and Little Miami rivers, Mad River, Cesar's Creek, in ...
/.../chapter 3 from the close.htm

Cesar's (8 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Cesar's (8 Occurrences). Matthew 22:21 They say
to him, Cesar's. Then saith he to them, Render therefore ...
/c/cesar's.htm - 8k

Cesar (20 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Cesar (20 Occurrences). Matthew 22:17 Tell us therefore,
What thinkest thou? Is it lawful to give tribute to Cesar, or not? ...
/c/cesar.htm - 12k

Cesarea (17 Occurrences)

/c/cesarea.htm - 13k

Cessation (4 Occurrences)

/c/cessation.htm - 7k

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