Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: The term "Cesar" in the Bible refers to the Roman emperors who ruled during the time of the New Testament. The name "Cesar" is derived from the title "Caesar," which became synonymous with the Roman emperors following Julius Caesar. In the New Testament, references to Cesar are significant as they provide context to the political and social environment during the life and ministry of Jesus Christ and the early church. Biblical References: 1. Tribute to Cesar: One of the most well-known references to Cesar is found in the synoptic Gospels, where Jesus is questioned about paying taxes to the Roman authorities. In Matthew 22:21 , Jesus responds, "Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s." This statement highlights the distinction between civic duty and spiritual obligation, emphasizing the importance of fulfilling responsibilities to both earthly and divine authorities. 2. Paul's Appeal to Cesar: The Apostle Paul, a Roman citizen, exercised his right to appeal to Cesar when he faced accusations 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 the complexities of navigating the Roman judicial system. 3. Cesar Augustus: The Gospel of Luke mentions Cesar Augustus in the context of the birth of Jesus. Luke 2:1 states, "Now in those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that a census should be taken of the whole empire." This decree led to Joseph and Mary's journey to Bethlehem, fulfilling the prophecy of the Messiah's birthplace. Cesar Augustus, the first Roman emperor, is thus indirectly linked to the fulfillment of Messianic prophecy. 4. Cesar Tiberius: Tiberius Cesar is mentioned in Luke 3:1 as the ruling emperor during the beginning of John the Baptist's ministry: "In the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea..." This reference situates the events of the New Testament within the broader historical framework of the Roman Empire. Historical Context: The Roman Empire, under the rule of various emperors referred to as Cesar, played a crucial role in shaping the world in which the New Testament events unfolded. The Pax Romana, a period of relative peace and stability across the empire, facilitated the spread of the Gospel by providing a network of roads and a common language (Greek) for communication. However, the Roman authorities also posed challenges to early Christians, as the emperors were often seen as divine figures, leading to conflicts with the monotheistic beliefs of Christianity. Theological Significance: The references to Cesar in the New Testament underscore the tension between the Kingdom of God and earthly kingdoms. Jesus' teachings and the actions of the apostles often highlighted the transient nature of earthly power compared to the eternal reign of God. The interactions with Roman authorities, including the emperors, serve as a backdrop for the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through Jesus Christ. Conclusion: While the Bible does not provide extensive details about the individual emperors, the references to Cesar serve as a reminder of the historical and political context of the New Testament. The interactions with Roman authority illustrate the early Christians' navigation of their dual citizenship in the Roman Empire and the Kingdom of God. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary Cesara name applied to those who are cut out of the womb ATS Bible Dictionary CesarSee CAESAR. Library Books for Sunday Schools. --- 200 Mulberry-Street, New York. ... Paul Before Festus and Agrippa. Honour to Magistrates; Or, Government from God. How Crassus came into Judea, and Pillaged the Temple; and Then ... Paul and Silas in Thessalonica and Berea. These Relate to the Sixth Seal. John the Preacher of Repentance The Jews Become Confederates with Caesar when He Fought against ... Ave Maria Tu Gloria Jerusalem Thesaurus 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 Cesar's (8 Occurrences) Cesarea (17 Occurrences) Certify (4 Occurrences) Offense (44 Occurrences) Lysanius (1 Occurrence) Iturea (1 Occurrence) Cessation (4 Occurrences) Resources What is the G12 vision / movement? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Cesar (20 Occurrences)Matthew 22:17 Matthew 22:21 Mark 12:14 Mark 12:17 Luke 2:1 Luke 3:1 Luke 20:22 Luke 20:25 Luke 23:2 John 19:12 John 19:15 Acts 11:28 Acts 17:7 Acts 25:8 Acts 25:11 Acts 25:12 Acts 25:21 Acts 26:32 Acts 27:24 Acts 28:19 Subtopics Related Terms |