Scripture
24 After Jesus and his disciples arrived in Capernaum, the collectors of the two-drachma temple tax came to Peter and asked, “Doesn’t your teacher pay the temple tax?”
25 “Yes, he does,” he replied.
When Peter came into the house, Jesus was the first to speak. “What do you think, Simon?” he asked. “From whom do the kings of the earth collect duty and taxes—from their own children or from others?”
26 “From others,” Peter answered.
“Then the children are exempt,” Jesus said to him. 27 “But so that we may not cause offense, go to the lake and throw out your line. Take the first fish you catch; open its mouth and you will find a four-drachma coin. Take it and give it to them for my tax and yours.”
Reflection
Jesus teachings didn’t just come through the times he addressed a crowd or, in our context, when it was time for a Sunday Service or a Bible Study. In the everyday life He interacted with his disciples and used different opportunities to teach them principles, to ask probing questions and to help them see things in light of God’s truth.
Adult Jewish males throughout the Empire paid an annual two-drachma temple tax as a requirement for the upkeep of the Jerusalem Temple. (IVP New Testament Commentaries).
Jesus, as the Son of God, would be exempt from paying the tax, but although the revelation is true, He knew it would cause unnecessary offence. We then see that amount being miraculously provided.
Our God is a God who provides for our needs; our need for Jesus, as well as our physical needs.
Thoughts for the day
- What does this passage tell you about God or Jesus?
- What does this passage tell you about humanity?
- What do you feel God is telling you through this passage?
- How can you apply this message in an area of your life that needs transformation?
- Is there anyone you think should hear or will benefit from this message? Go and tell them.
Prayer
Pray for the nation of China. Pray for China’s leaders and for all those who are in authority. May they call on God for the wisdom to lead this country.
