Matthew 17:27
Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee.
Matthew 17:27 (KJV)
Context
Matthew 17:24-27 records the moment when temple tax collectors asked Peter whether Jesus paid the annual half-shekel tax. Peter answered yes, assuming Jesus would pay. When they arrived home, Jesus spoke first, asking Peter whether earthly kings collect taxes from their own sons or from strangers. When Peter replied that they collect from strangers, Jesus said, “Then are the children free.” As the Son of God, Jesus was not obligated to pay the temple tax, yet He chose to pay it to avoid causing offense.
Meaning
The Greek word translated “offend” (skandalizō) means to cause someone to stumble or to give offense. Jesus deliberately set aside His legitimate freedom to prevent misunderstanding and to keep peace with the temple authorities. His instruction to Peter was precise: go to the sea, cast a hook, take the first fish that comes up, open its mouth, and find a piece of money. The coin was a stater, worth four drachmas, exactly enough to pay the temple tax for both Jesus and Peter. This miracle reveals Jesus’ divine knowledge and His authority over creation, for He knew the exact fish and the exact coin it carried.
Biblical connections
This event occurs shortly after the Transfiguration, where Jesus’ glory was revealed to Peter, James, and John. The miracle at the sea demonstrates the same divine power, yet it is exercised in humble obedience. Jesus, the Son of God, submitted to the temple authorities and paid the tax, illustrating the principle of honoring earthly authorities for the Lord’s sake. His willingness to pay, even though He was free, models the attitude of setting aside personal rights for the sake of others’ consciences.
Application
Trust in God’s provision: Jesus provided the exact amount needed in an unexpected way. Believers can trust that God knows their needs and can supply them through means they could not anticipate.
Avoid unnecessary offense: Jesus paid the tax to avoid causing offense, even though He was not obligated. Christians are called to act considerately, seeking peace and unity rather than insisting on their own rights.
Recognize Christ’s authority: The miracle shows Jesus’ lordship over nature and His ability to work beyond natural boundaries. This reminds believers of His limitless power and care for His followers.
Reflection
Matthew 17:27 invites believers to consider how they handle their own freedoms. Jesus did not use His divine status as a reason to avoid the tax; instead, He chose humility and peace. In daily life, Christians may face situations where they have a right to act one way, but love for others suggests another. This passage encourages trusting God’s provision, being mindful of how actions affect others, and following Christ’s example of humble obedience.
