Topical Encyclopedia In the New Testament, the account of Jesus paying the temple tax is a significant event that highlights His submission to earthly authorities and His divine wisdom. This episode is recorded in the Gospel of Matthew, specifically in Matthew 17:24-27.Context and Background The temple tax, also known as the two-drachma tax, was an annual levy imposed on Jewish males for the maintenance of the temple in Jerusalem. This tax had its roots in the Mosaic Law, where each Israelite was required to contribute to the service of the tabernacle (Exodus 30:13-16). By the time of Jesus, this tax was still collected for the upkeep of the temple. The Account in Matthew 17:24-27 The narrative begins when Jesus and His disciples arrive in Capernaum. The collectors of the two-drachma tax approach Peter and inquire, "Does your Teacher not pay the two drachmas?" (Matthew 17:24). Peter affirms that Jesus does pay the tax. Upon entering the house, Jesus preempts Peter's report by asking him a question about the nature of taxation: "What do you think, Simon? From whom do the kings of the earth collect customs and taxes: from their own sons, or from others?" (Matthew 17:25). Peter responds, "From others," to which Jesus replies, "Then the sons are exempt" (Matthew 17:26). Here, Jesus implies that as the Son of God, He is exempt from the temple tax, which is ultimately for His Father's house. However, to avoid causing offense, Jesus instructs Peter to go to the sea, cast a hook, and take the first fish he catches. In the fish's mouth, Peter finds a stater coin, sufficient to pay the tax for both Jesus and himself (Matthew 17:27). Theological Implications This passage reveals several key theological insights: 1. Jesus' Divine Sonship: By discussing the exemption of sons from taxes, Jesus subtly affirms His divine sonship and His unique relationship with God the Father. As the Son, He is not obligated to pay the tax for the temple, which is His Father's house. 2. Submission to Earthly Authorities: Despite His divine status, Jesus chooses to pay the tax to avoid unnecessary offense. This act exemplifies His teaching on respecting and submitting to earthly authorities, as later expounded in His famous dictum, "Render to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's" (Mark 12:17). 3. Miraculous Provision: The manner in which the tax is paid underscores Jesus' divine authority and power over creation. The miracle of the coin in the fish's mouth demonstrates His sovereignty and ability to provide for His needs and those of His followers. 4. Avoidance of Offense: Jesus' decision to pay the tax, despite His exemption, highlights His concern for not causing unnecessary stumbling blocks for others. This reflects His broader mission of reconciliation and peace. Conclusion The account of Jesus paying the temple tax is a profound narrative that encapsulates His identity as the Son of God, His respect for earthly institutions, and His miraculous provision. It serves as a reminder of the balance between divine authority and humble submission to human systems. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 17:24-27And when they were come to Capernaum, they that received tribute money came to Peter, and said, Does not your master pay tribute? Nave's Topical Index Library Jesus Pays the Tribute Money. The Coin in the Fish's Mouth Of the Matters to be Considered in the Councils. The Women of the Gospel Narrative the Study of the Early Christian ... The North African Church under the Vandals. Concerning Christian Liberty Concerning Christian Liberty From the Close of the General Conference of 1808, to the ... Period iii. The Critical Period: AD 140 to AD 200 Book ii. Jerome Answers the Second, Third, and Fourth Propositions ... Resources Why does the Bible speak so negatively about tax collectors? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the temple tax? | GotQuestions.org Why do governments allow churches to be tax-exempt? | GotQuestions.org Tax: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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