Matthew 17:26
Peter saith vnto him, Of strangers. Iesus saith vnto him, Then are the children free. Matthew 17:26 (KJV)
Peter saith unto him, Of strangers. Jesus saith unto him,
Then are the children free. Matthew 17:26 (KJV)
Matthew 17:24‑27 records an incident in which tax collectors approached Peter and asked whether it was lawful to pay the temple tax. Peter replied that those who belong to the world (or strangers) pay the tax. When they entered the house, Jesus spoke to Peter privately.
The temple tax was an annual half‑shekel (two drachmae) required of every Jewish male from the age of twenty onward to support the maintenance and operation of the Jerusalem temple. The practice had its roots in the Mosaic provision for a contribution to the sanctuary (Exodus 30:13), but by Jesus’ time it had become a customary civic obligation rather than a direct command of the Law.
Jesus answered Peter’s question by asking, “What thinkest thou, Simon? of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute? of their own children, or of strangers?” Peter answered, “Of strangers.” Jesus replied, “Then are the children free.” By “children” He referred to Himself and His disciples as children of God, indicating that they were not bound by the civil requirement in the same way as ordinary citizens.
Although the passage shows that the children of God enjoy a special freedom from such obligations, Jesus chose to pay the tax to avoid causing offense. He instructed Peter to go to the sea, cast a hook, and take a fish whose mouth contained a coin, which was then used to settle the matter. This act demonstrates humility, responsible stewardship, and a concern for the testimony of the believers.
The spiritual principle that emerges is that believers are no longer bound by every worldly regulation or legalistic tradition. The freedom that comes through Christ releases us from the bondage of sin and unnecessary customs, yet it calls us to live considerately within societal structures, honoring legitimate authorities when appropriate. The example of Jesus shows that Christian liberty is paired with gracious obedience that protects the peace and good witness of the church.
In summary, Matthew 17:26 teaches that the children of God enjoy a special liberty, while also modeling the importance of fulfilling civic duties responsibly when they do not conflict with the higher calling of the gospel.
