Keraia
Matthew 17

Matthew 17:25

The Temple Tax · Matthew 17:24–27
Read Matthew 17

Translations

Modern
“Yes,” he answered. When Peter entered the house, Jesus preempted him. “What do you think, Simon?” He asked. “From whom do the kings of the earth collect customs and taxes: from their own sons, or from others?”
Traditional
He saith, Yes. And when he was come into the house, Jesus prevented him, saying, What thinkest thou, Simon? of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute? of their own children, or of strangers?
Literal
He says, “Yes.” And on his having come into the house, Jesus anticipated him, saying, “What do you think, Simon? From whom do the kings of the earth receive custom or tribute: From their sons, or from the strangers?”
Latin
Ait: Etiam. Et cum intrasset in domum, prævenit eum Jesus, dicens: Quid tibi videtur Simon? reges terræ a quibus accipiunt tributum vel censum? a filiis suis, an ab alienis?

Original

Greek
English
“Yes,” he answered. When Peter entered the house, Jesus preempted him. “What do you think, Simon?” He asked. “From whom do the kings of the earth collect customs and taxes: from their own sons, or from others?”

Notes

Matthew 17:25–26

As an obedient Jew, Jesus would have paid the tax every year, and he did pay it. The lesson Jesus wanted to teach was that as God's Son, he is greater than the temple (Matthew 12:5–6). By this, he showed that a decisive break with the temple was coming (see 16:18–19; 21:33–46).

Events

People

Jesus: The Son of God and Savior of the world Peter: Apostle of Jesus, leader in the early church

Glossary

Gospel of Matthew Half-Shekel Tax Jesus Christ Money Changer Tax, Taxation

Topics

Citizens: Duties of Jesus, the Christ: Miracle of the Temple Tax Money in the Fish's Mouth Jesus, the Christ: Miracles of Piece of Money Found in the Fish's Mouth King: Poll Tax Miracles of Jesus, in Chronological Order: The Temple Tax Money Obtained from a Fish's Mouth Tax: Jesus Pays the Prophet Christ: God Commands Us to Hear Tribute (Taxes): from Conquered Nations Tribute: Christ to Avoid Offense Wrought a Miracle to Pay for Himself