Matthew 17:24-27
- And when they were come to Capernaum, they that received tribute money came to Peter, and said, Doth not your master pay tribute?
Perhaps Capernaum was a religious city and these men asking for tribute to the house of God.
- 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?
- Peter saith unto him, Of strangers. Jesus saith unto him, Then are the children free.
Jesus actually has no problem with paying tribute. He expected Peter to declare to those men that Jesus is the Son of God. And that Son of God does not pay tribute to house of God. He expected Peter to He bolder in his ministry.
- 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.
Jesus is Son of God. He has authority over everything. Since he had no problem paying tribute per se, and to show once more to Peter his power and authority, he does this miracle and send Peter to get a fish from the sea which will definitely carry a pearl!