New Testament
Matthew 17:25
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
"Yes, he does," Peter answered. When Peter came into the house, Jesus spoke first: "What do you think, Simon? Who do the kings of the earth collect taxes and duties from — their own children or from others?"
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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?
What Matthew 17:25 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Peter confirms that Jesus is indeed the Son of God. When he enters the house, Jesus initiates a conversation about taxes. He asks Peter whether kings collect taxes from their own children or from others. This question highlights the idea that as the Son of God, Jesus is like a king's child and therefore not obligated to pay taxes like others. Jesus uses this moment to teach Peter about his identity and the nature of his mission. The implication is that while Jesus has the right to be exempt from such obligations, he chooses to fulfill them to avoid causing offense. This interaction emphasizes Jesus' humility and his willingness to relate to humanity, even in matters of civic duty. It also sets the stage for understanding his authority and the nature of his kingdom, which is not of this world but is deeply connected to it.
How to apply Matthew 17:25 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own responsibilities and how we can choose humility in our actions. Just as Jesus prioritized relationships over rights, we should consider how our choices impact others and strive to act with grace and understanding in our communities.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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Illustrated scene from Peter's story: The Coin in the Fish (Matthew 17:24–27)
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Peter
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 17:25 mean?
Matthew 17:25 shows a conversation between Peter and Jesus about taxes. Jesus uses this moment to illustrate that as the Son of God, he is like a king's child who is not obligated to pay taxes, yet he chooses to do so to avoid offending others.
What is the significance of Jesus asking about taxes in Matthew 17:25?
In Matthew 17:25, Jesus asks Peter whether kings collect taxes from their children or from others. This question highlights Jesus' identity as the Son of God and emphasizes his humility in fulfilling civic duties despite having the right to be exempt.
Why did Jesus choose to pay the tax mentioned in Matthew 17:25?
Jesus chose to pay the tax in Matthew 17:25 to avoid causing offense, demonstrating his willingness to relate to humanity and prioritize relationships over his rights as the Son of God.
What themes are present in Matthew 17:25?
Matthew 17:25 includes themes of Jesus' identity, authority, humility, and the nature of his kingdom. It reflects on how Jesus navigates civic responsibilities while affirming his divine status.
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