Matthew 17:25
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 17:25
25 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?
Chapter Context
Matthew 17 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, judgment, worship. 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 offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. 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 17:25
25 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?
Analysis
He saith, Yes. And when he was come into the house, Jesus prevented him (λέγει, Ναί. καὶ ὅτε εἰσῆλθεν εἰς τὴν οἰκίαν, προέφθασεν αὐτὸν ὁ Ἰησοῦς)—Peter's immediate 'Yes' (Ναί) affirms Jesus's practice of paying the tax. The verb προφθάνω (prophthānō, 'to anticipate, to come before, to prevent' in older English meaning 'precede') shows Jesus initiated conversation before Peter could speak. This demonstrates Jesus's omniscience—He knew the encounter Peter just had. His supernatural knowledge validates His subsequent teaching.
What thinkest thou, Simon? of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute? (Τί σοι δοκεῖ, Σίμων; οἱ βασιλεῖς τῆς γῆς ἀπὸ τίνων λαμβάνουσιν τέλη ἢ κῆνσον;)—Jesus uses Socratic questioning. The terms τέλος (indirect tax, custom) and κῆνσος (direct tax, tribute) cover all taxation. Of their own children, or of strangers? (ἀπὸ τῶν υἱῶν αὐτῶν ἢ ἀπὸ τῶν ἀλλοτρίων;)—the contrast is between υἱοί (sons, heirs, royal family) and ἀλλότριοι (strangers, aliens, foreigners). Jesus establishes the principle that kings tax subjects, not their own family.
Historical Context
Roman taxation in first-century Judea was extensive and resented. The temple tax, however, was Jewish self-taxation for worship, not foreign oppression. Jesus's analogy assumes understanding of Near Eastern monarchies where royal families enjoyed tax exemption—they controlled the treasury, making self-taxation absurd. Persian, Greek, and Roman practice all exempted rulers' families from taxes levied on subjects. Jesus applies this earthly principle to heavenly reality.
Reflection
- How does Jesus's omniscience (knowing Peter's conversation) encourage you that He knows your circumstances before you pray?
- What does Jesus's Socratic teaching method reveal about effective discipleship—asking questions rather than merely lecturing?
Cross-References
- Kingdom: 1 Samuel 17:25
- Parallel theme: Matthew 22:17, 22:19, 22:21