What does Matthew 17:24 mean?

Explanation

Matthew 17:24 discusses the event where collectors of the two-drachma temple tax approached Peter to inquire whether Jesus paid the temple tax.

This tax was traditionally collected from Jewish males for the maintenance of the Jerusalem Temple.

The passage highlights a situation where Jesus' actions are examined in light of Jewish customs and laws.

It sets the stage for Jesus to teach about His identity as the Son of God and His relationship to the Temple, implying that as the Son of the house, He is not obliged to pay.

However, to avoid causing offense, Jesus instructs Peter to pay the tax for both of them. This event conveys, both the acknowledgment of civic responsibility and the deeper truth of Jesus' divine sonship.

Historical Context

At the time Matthew 17:24 was written, the temple tax was a well-established tradition rooted in the Hebrew scriptures.

In Exodus 30:13-16, every Israelite was required to pay a half-shekel as an offering to the Lord when they took a census.

By the first century AD, this had evolved into an annual tax used for the upkeep of the temple.

Capernaum was a town on the north shore of the Sea of Galilee and a place where Jesus and His disciples spent a considerable amount of time.

The tax collectors' approaching Peter rather than Jesus directly may reflect the social protocols or Peter's perceived role as a spokesperson for the disciples.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse presents several key insights: 1.

Sonship of Christ: Jesus implies His divine authority over the temple by suggesting that, as the Son, He is exempt from the tax. 2.

Stumbling Block: Jesus chooses to pay the tax to avoid becoming a stumbling block to others, highlighting the principle of not using Christian liberty in a way that might lead others to sin. 3.

Provision of God: Jesus provides for the tax miraculously, showing God's provision and sovereignty.

Different theological traditions interpret this passage in varying ways, with some emphasizing Jesus' commitment to fulfilling the law, and others His divinity and unique relationship to the temple.

Practical Applications

The passage can be used to illustrate the following practical applications in daily life: 1.

Civic Responsibility: Christians are encouraged to fulfill their civic duties, like paying taxes, without compromising their faith. 2.

Offense to Others: Believers are taught to consider their actions in the light of how they affect others, avoiding causing offense unnecessarily. 3.

Reliance on God: The miraculous provision for the tax encourages believers to trust in God's provision in their own lives.

Cross-References

• Exodus 30:13-16: Discusses the origin of the temple tax that every Jewish male over twenty was required to pay.
• Romans 13:7: Advises to "Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom..."
• 1 Corinthians 8:9: Warns "But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumbling block to them that are weak."
• Matthew 22:21: Jesus' teaching to "Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's."

Language Study

The phrase "tribute money" in Matthew 17:24 is translated from the Greek word "didrachma," which refers to a specific silver coin worth two drachmas, equivalent to a Jewish half-shekel.

The verb "to pay" comes from the Greek "teleo," meaning to fulfill or pay what is due.

Understanding these terms provides clarity on the type of tax being referred to and the nature of the transaction.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The concept of temple tax, or a required contribution for religious purposes, can be found in other ancient cultures as well.

For example, in Ancient Egypt, there were taxes for the temple of Amun, which were mandatory for supporting the priesthood and temple upkeep.

The practice of taxing for the support of a state religion was common in various cultures, each with its nuances.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientific perspectives do not directly bear upon the understanding of this scriptural text, as it deals predominantly with historical, theological, and ethical teachings.

Nevertheless, modern economics might offer insights into the impact of religious taxes on ancient economies or the value of such taxes today when adjusted for inflation.

Commentaries

Commentaries on Matthew 17:24 offer a spectrum of interpretations.

William Barclay notes that this incident reflects Jesus' wisdom in choosing not to offend unnecessarily.

The Expositor's Bible Commentary emphasizes the significance of Jesus demonstrating His divine sonship while still respecting the religious customs of His time.

Matthew Henry's Commentary suggests that though Christ was free from the obligation, He submitted to it for the good of His followers, providing a lesson in patience under similar impositions.