Matthew 17:27
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 17:27
27 Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee.
Chapter Context
Matthew 17 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of wisdom, worship, love. 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 provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 17:27
27 Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee.
Analysis
Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them (ἵνα δὲ μὴ σκανδαλίσωμεν αὐτούς)—the conjunction ἵνα μή ('lest, so that not') introduces purpose: Jesus pays to avoid σκανδαλίζω (causing to stumble, giving offense). Though exempt, He accommodates weak consciences. This exemplifies Paul's later teaching (Romans 14:13-21; 1 Corinthians 8:9-13): don't cause others to stumble over non-essential matters. Christian freedom serves love, not self-assertion. Jesus models humility—voluntarily limiting freedom for others' spiritual good.
Go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money (πορευθεὶς εἰς θάλασσαν βάλε ἄγκιστρον καὶ τὸν ἀναβάντα πρῶτον ἰχθὺν ἆρον, καὶ ἀνοίξας τὸ στόμα αὐτοῦ εὑρήσεις στατῆρα)—The στατήρ (statēr, four-drachma coin) equals two didrachmas, sufficient for two men. This miracle demonstrates
- Christ's omniscience (knowing which fish has the coin)
- His authority over creation (directing the fish)
- His supernatural provision. That take, and give unto them for me and thee—Jesus includes Peter in His provision.
God supplies our needs through unexpected means when we trust Him.
Historical Context
Fish occasionally swallowed shiny objects. Tilapia (common in Galilee) carry eggs/small fish in mouths, making mouth-fishing possible. But Jesus's specific prediction makes this supernatural—He orchestrated this provision. The miracle demonstrated to collectors (who likely heard about it) that Jesus possessed authority over creation, yet humbly complied with human customs. The statēr likely bore Caesar's image, ironically using Caesar's coin for temple tax, foreshadowing 22:21 ('Render to Caesar...').
Reflection
- How does Jesus's willing payment despite exemption model Christian freedom rightly used to serve others rather than self?
- What does God's unusual method of provision (coin in fish's mouth) teach about His creativity in meeting your needs?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: 1 Kings 17:4, Psalms 8:8, Jonah 1:17, 2:10, Romans 14:21, 1 Corinthians 8:9