The MacArthur Study Bible – The Temple Tax
Matthew 17:24-27

Another look at the Temple Tax of Matthew 17:24-27…the MacArthur Study Bible brings out some interesting facts about this tax.

First, this tax was collection for the maintenance of the temple from those who were 20 years old and up.  The study bible makes a reference back to Exodus 30:13-14.  In this chapter of Exodus, we find that this payment was made for the atonement of the Hebrews – God’s chosen people.  So we see that the original intention was to remind the children of God of their need for a sacrifice to put them in a “right” relationship with God.

By the time Jesus walked the earth, the people of God were taking it up for maintenance of the Temple but the sacrifice was walking among them. Tragically, the work that the temple tax should have been able to do for them it did not. It points to Jesus but the Jews could not see Him. Jesus is who would be the atonement for their sins.

It is interesting in this text that Jesus asks Peter from who do the kings of the earth take customs or taxes. Jesus asked whether it was from sons of the king or from strangers. Peter says that the tax or customs are taken from strangers.  Jesus responded that as a consequence the sons are free. The teaching is that those who are the sons of God are free and that they will no longer have to pay.

For all who trust in Christ the King, you don’t have to pay yearly for your favor with God anymore. Jesus has paid it all.

Thanks for reading this article that hopefully shows a useful mechanism within the MacArthur Study Bible. It is my hope that through articles like this one, you can make an educated decision on whether this study bible is right for you.