Matthew 17:25 Meaning and Explanation
“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?”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Peter answers yes; before he can speak, Jesus asks whether kings tax their own children or strangers.
What Does Matthew 17:25 Mean?
Peter answers yes, and as he comes into the house Jesus speaks first, before Peter can raise the matter -- already knowing what was asked outside. He poses a gentle question: do earthly kings collect taxes from their own children, or from others?
The question carries its own answer and points to who Jesus is. If the temple is His Father's house, then He is the Son, and a son is not a stranger taxed in his own father's home. With a quiet word Jesus reveals His unique relationship to God, teaching Peter to see Him rightly even in the smallest matters of life.
Frequently Asked Questions About Matthew 17:25
What does Matthew 17:25 mean?
Peter answers yes; before he can speak, Jesus asks whether kings tax their own children or strangers.