The MacArthur Study Bible – The Temple Tax

Matthew 17:24-27

The MacArthur Study Bible does a good job of not only giving facts in the commentary but also referencing the scripture passages that explain it.

In Matthew 17:24-27, the Jewish representatives that collected the temple tax came to Peter and asked if Jesus paid the temple tax. MacArthur explains that the temple tax was a half-shekel. This amount in those days was about two days wages explained the study bible commentary. The MacArthur Study Bible comments that the tax was collected from males over 20 on a yearly basis. The commentary also referenced the verses in Exodus 30:13-14, 2 Chronicles 24:9 that denote these requirements.

When Jesus asked from whom do the kings of the earth get the customs or taxes, Peter said that the strangers pay them. The commentary explains that since Jesus is the son of the God, He is not under obligation to pay. By implication, since believers in Jesus have been adopted into God’s family and now Jesus is our elder brother, we are not obligated either. However, to avoid offense, Jesus paid it. Jesus understood that the Jews did not understand who He was.

Jesus knew that the commandments of God would require us to be obedient to authorities. The MacArthur Study Bible references Roman 13:1-7 which elaborates on the believer’s responsibility to obey governmental authority.

Hopefully, this look at Matthew 17:24-27 and the commentary provided by the Macarthur Study Bible will give you a better view of this resource and if this study bible is right for you. Thanks for reading this article.