As they arrive in Capernaum, the collectors of the two-drachma temple tax came and asked Peter if Jesus pays the temple tax.
Peter responds by saying yes he does.
When Peter entered the house, Jesus was the first to speak. He asks Peter what he thinks. Who do the kings of the earth collect taxes from, their own children or from others?
Peter answered from others.
Jesus said so the children are exempt. To save from causing an offense, however, go down to the lake and cast your line. Open the mouth of the first fish you catch and inside will be a four-drachma coin. Use it to pay your tax and mine.
Jesus wants His disciples to know that who He serves is not of this world, however, it’s still important to keep the peace with the laws of the land. Jesus had to prove though that He could pay it in an unconventional way (a Son of Man kind of way). We may not always agree with all of the political decisions, but it’s important to remember we serve a God not of this world. As long as we serve Him and keep Him first we are on the path that leads to righteousness. Part of that path is obeying the laws of land…we are not exempt from doing so. Our fight should not be about those trivial things, but the more spiritual things such as leading others to Christ. Where is your focus today?
A Journey With Jesus 