New Testament

Matthew 17:24

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, Jesus and His disciples arrive in Capernaum, where tax collectors approach Peter.

Author: Matthew the apostle
Written: Around AD 60-70
Genre: Gospel
Original Audience: Jewish Christians

CBTClear Bible Translation

When they arrived in Capernaum, the collectors of the temple tax approached Peter and asked, "Doesn't your teacher pay the temple tax?"

KJVKing James Version

And when they were come to Capernaum, they that received tribute money came to Peter, and said, Doth not your master pay tribute?

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, Jesus and His disciples arrive in Capernaum, where tax collectors approach Peter. They inquire whether Jesus pays the temple tax, which was a customary tax for the upkeep of the temple in Jerusalem. This question highlights the expectations placed on religious leaders and the societal norms of the time. The temple tax was a significant part of Jewish religious life, and the collectors were likely trying to assess Jesus' adherence to Jewish law. Peter's response to this question sets the stage for a deeper lesson about Jesus' identity and His relationship to the temple. It also foreshadows the miraculous way in which Jesus addresses the issue of the tax, demonstrating His authority and divine nature. This moment serves as a reminder of the challenges Jesus faced in His ministry and the scrutiny He endured from religious authorities. Explore related discipleship.

Key themes

Related Bible verses

How to apply Matthew 17:24 to your life

This verse encourages us to reflect on our own obligations and how we respond to societal expectations. Just as Jesus navigated the pressures of His time, we too can find ways to honor our commitments while remaining true to our beliefs and values.

Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Matthew 17:24 mean?

Matthew 17:24 describes an encounter in Capernaum where tax collectors ask Peter if Jesus pays the temple tax. This highlights the expectations of religious leaders and sets the stage for a lesson about Jesus' identity and authority.

What is the significance of the temple tax in Matthew 17:24?

The temple tax was a customary payment for the upkeep of the Jerusalem temple, reflecting the religious obligations of the Jewish people. This verse illustrates how Jesus navigated societal norms and expectations placed on Him as a religious figure.

Who approached Peter in Matthew 17:24?

In Matthew 17:24, the collectors of the temple tax approached Peter to inquire about whether Jesus pays the temple tax, indicating their interest in Jesus' adherence to Jewish law.

What does this verse reveal about Jesus' relationship to the temple?

This verse suggests that Jesus, while being questioned about the temple tax, has a unique relationship to the temple that transcends traditional expectations, hinting at His divine authority.

Book Summary

The Book of Matthew

Matthew 1: The Generation and Birth of Jesus Christ

The book begins with the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. It records the generations from Abraham to David, from David until the carrying away into Babylon, and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ, each being fourteen generations. The genealogy concludes with Jacob begetting Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.

The birth of Jesus Christ is on this wise: His mother Mary is espoused to Joseph, but before they come together, she is found with child of the Holy Ghost. Joseph, being a just man and not willing to make her a publick example, is minded to put her away privily. But while he thinks on these things, an angel of the Lord appears to him in a dream, saying, Fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. The angel saith she shall bring forth a son, and Joseph shall call his name JESUS, for he shall save his people from their sins. Joseph, being raised from sleep, does as the angel had bidden him and takes unto him his wife, but knows her not till she has brought forth her firstborn son. Matthew 2: The Wise Men and the Flight to Egypt When Jesus is born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, there come wise men from the east to Jerusalem, saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him. When Herod the king hears these things, he is troubled. He gathers the chief priests and scribes and demands of them where Christ should be born. They say unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea. Herod privily calls the wise men and sends them to Bethlehem to search for the young child, telling them to bring him word again, that he may come and worship him also. The star goes before them until it stands over where the young child is. They rejoice, and entering the house, they see the young child with Mary his mother, and fall down and worship him, presenting him with gifts. Being warned of God in a dream not to return to Herod, they depart into their own country another way.

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