Matthew 17:24
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 17:24
24 And when they were come to Capernaum, they that received tribute money came to Peter, and said, Doth not your master pay tribute?
Chapter Context
Matthew 17 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, love, creation. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-90 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christianity was separating from Judaism following Jerusalem's destruction.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-27: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Matthew and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Matthew 17:24
24 And when they were come to Capernaum, they that received tribute money came to Peter, and said, Doth not your master pay tribute?
Analysis
And when they were come to Capernaum, they that received tribute money came to Peter (Ἐλθόντων δὲ αὐτῶν εἰς Καφαρναοὺμ προσῆλθον οἱ τὰ δίδραχμα λαμβάνοντες τῷ Πέτρῳ)—Capernaum was Jesus's ministry headquarters (4:13). The τὰ δίδραχμα (didrachma, 'two drachma') refers to the half-shekel temple tax required of every Jewish male over 20 (Exodus 30:11-16). The collectors approached Peter, perhaps because he was prominent or owned a house there. And said, Doth not your master pay tribute? (καὶ εἶπαν, Ὁ διδάσκαλος ὑμῶν οὐ τελεῖ τὰ δίδραχμα;)—the question expects a positive answer ('Your teacher does pay, doesn't he?'), subtly challenging whether Jesus honors Jewish obligation.
This wasn't Roman taxation but temple support for sacrifices, maintenance, and priestly support. The question tests Jesus's piety and Jewish loyalty. Did He honor Torah requirements? The collectors' approach to Peter rather than Jesus may indicate reluctance to directly confront Him after His growing reputation. This incident demonstrates Jesus's engagement with practical religious/civic obligations, not merely lofty spiritual teaching.
Historical Context
The half-shekel temple tax originated in Exodus 30:11-16 as atonement money for the sanctuary. By Jesus's time, it was collected annually (Adar, before Passover) throughout the Jewish world, funding temple operations. Mishnah tractate Shekalim details collection procedures. Jesus's compliance with this tax shows He honored legitimate religious obligations, though He would later cleanse the temple (21:12-13), showing support for proper worship while condemning corruption.
Reflection
- How does Jesus's willing compliance with legitimate religious obligations challenge both legalism and antinomianism?
- What does the collectors' indirect approach (through Peter) teach about fear-based religious inquiry versus genuine seeking?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Exodus 30:13, 38:26