But from this I proceed to consider more in detail, some points in the teaching and conduct of Jesus, which do not appear to me consistent with absolute perfection.
The argument of Jesus concerning the tribute to Caesar is so dramatic, as to strike the imagination and rest on the memory; and I know no reason for doubting that it has been correctly reported.

The book of Deuteronomy (xvii.

15) distinctly forbids Israel to set over himself as king any who is not a native Israelite; which appeared to be a religious condemnation of submission to Caesar.

Accordingly, since Jesus assumed the tone of unlimited wisdom, some of Herod's party asked him, whether it was lawful to pay tribute to Caesar.

Jesus replied: "Why tempt ye me, hypocrites?
Show me the tribute money." When one of the coins was handed to him, he asked: "Whose image and superscription is this ?" When they replied: "Caesar's," he gave his authoritative decision: "Render _therefore_ to Caesar _the things that are Caesar's_." In this reply not only the poor and uneducated, but many likewise of the rich and educated, recognize "majesty and sanctity:" yet I find it hard to think that my strong-minded friend will defend the justness, wisdom and honesty of it.