*Matthew 17:24-18:6
Jesus instructs Peter to pay the temple tax miraculously, then emphasizes humility and the importance of children in God’s kingdom.
- Tax Collection Questioned:
- Tax collectors approach Peter to inquire whether Jesus pays the temple tax.
- Peter affirms that Jesus does. Upon entering the house, Jesus initiates a conversation about the matter with Peter.
- Jesus explains that kings do not tax their own children but rather outsiders. Nevertheless, to avoid offense, Jesus instructs Peter to go fishing and find a coin in the fish’s mouth to pay their taxes.
- Teaching on Humility:
- Jesus’ disciples question Him about who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
- Jesus calls a child and emphasizes that unless they change and become like children, they will not enter the kingdom of heaven.
- He underscores humility, stating that whoever humbles themselves like a child will be the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
- Warning Against Causing Others to Stumble:
- Jesus warns against causing little ones who believe in Him to stumble.
- He declares that severe consequences await those who cause others to sin, likening it to having a millstone hung around their neck and being drowned in the depths of the sea.
Matthew 17:24-18:6 teaches us about humility, trust, and caring for others. Jesus shows respect by paying the temple tax, even though He is not required to, reminding us to be thoughtful and considerate in our responsibilities. He also tells His disciples that to be great in God’s kingdom, they must be humble like a child. This means we should trust God, rely on Him, and not be proud or selfish. Lastly, Jesus warns against leading others, especially children, away from faith. We can apply this by setting a good example, encouraging others in their faith, and always treating people with kindness and respect.
Matthew 17:24-18:6 (WEB)
17:24 When they had come to Capernaum, those who collected the didrachma coins came to Peter, and said, “Doesn’t your teacher pay the didrachma?” 25 He said, “Yes.”When he came into the house, Jesus anticipated him, saying, “What do you think, Simon? From whom do the kings of the earth receive toll or tribute? From their children, or from strangers?”26 Peter said to him, “From strangers.”Jesus said to him, “Therefore the children are exempt. 27 But, lest we cause them to stumble, go to the sea, cast a hook, and take up the first fish that comes up. When you have opened its mouth, you will find a stater coin. Take that, and give it to them for me and you.”18:1 In that hour the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who then is greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?”2 Jesus called a little child to himself, and set him in the middle of them 3 and said, “Most certainly I tell you, unless you turn and become as little children, you will in no way enter into the Kingdom of Heaven. 4 Whoever therefore humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven. 5 Whoever receives one such little child in my name receives me, 6 but whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to stumble, it would be better for him if a huge millstone were hung around his neck and that he were sunk in the depths of the sea.