What the Bible says about Jesus Christ as Ruler of the Temple
(From Forerunner Commentary)
The Temple tax was one-half shekel per year for every Jew over 20. Since Jesus Christ was Lord and Owner of the Temple, He and His "children" should have been free of taxation. Jesus orders Peter to pay it anyway for both of them to avoid a bitter and offensive debate on the merits of His claim. By doing this, Jesus sets the right example looking by faith beyond a legal technicality to the True Ruler, the Father. God likely brought this episode to pass for our instruction.
John W. Ritenbaugh
The Sovereignty of God: Part FiveRelated Topics: Diplomacy | Godly Diplomacy | Jesus Example of Diplomacy | Subjection to Authority | Taxation | Temple Tax