24 When they came to Capernaum , those who collected the two-drachma tax came to Peter and said , "Does your teacher not pay the two-drachma tax?" 25 He said , "Yes ." And when he came into the house , Jesus spoke to him first , saying , "What do you think , Simon ? From whom do the kings of the earth collect customs or poll-tax , from their sons or from strangers ?" 26 When Peter said , "From strangers ," Jesus said to him, "Then the sons are exempt . 27 "However , so e that we do not offend them, go to the sea and throw in a hook , and take the first fish that comes up; and when you open its mouth , you will find a shekel . Take that and give it to them for you and Me."
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Matthew 17:24-27
Commentary on Matthew 17:24-27
(Read Matthew 17:24-27)
Peter felt sure that his Master was ready to do what was right. Christ spoke first to give him proof that no thought can be withholden from him. We must never decline our duty for fear of giving offence; but we must sometimes deny ourselves in our worldly interests, rather than give offence. However the money was lodged in the fish, He who knows all things alone could know it, and only almighty power could bring it to Peter's hook. The power and the poverty of Christ should be mentioned together. If called by providence to be poor, like our Lord, let us trust in his power, and our God shall supply all our need, according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. In the way of obedience, in the course, perhaps, of our usual calling, as he helped Peter, so he will help us. And if any sudden call should occur, which we are not prepared to meet, let us not apply to others, till we first seek Christ.