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Temple Tax in the Fish'sMouth
Matthew 17:24-27 tells us about the miracle of the coin in the Fish’s mouth. This miracle is only recorded in the book of Matthew which is interesting since Matthew was the only disciple who was a tax collector.
The disciples were coming to Capernaum, and a tax collector asked Peter if his Teacher paid the temple tax. Peter replied that He did since all Jews paid a small tax to pay for the maintenance of the temple. (Perhaps Peter thought the crowd would think badly about Jesus if He didn’t pay the tax.) This tax was not part of Roman law, but specifically Jewish.
Should the Lord of all be subject to a temple tax? He is Lord of the temple.
Christ discusses the question with Peter, and makes the point that they are free from paying this tax. Peter quickly understands Jesus’ point, nevertheless to avoid offense, the Lord tells Peter to go find the fish. Peter does so, finds the coin in the mouth of the very first fish, and then he goes to pay the temple tax.
Matthew 17:24-27
And when they were come to Capernaum, they that received tribute money came to Peter, and said, Doth not your master pay tribute?
25 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?
26 Peter saith unto him, Of strangers. Jesus saith unto him, Then are the children free.
27 Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast a 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.