Matthew 17:27But, lest we cause them to stumble, go to the sea, cast a hook, and take up the first fish that comes up. When you have opened its mouth, you will find a stater coin. Take that, and give it to them for me and you."
The setting
Capernaum, Israel ~29 AD. Tax collectors demand the two-drachma temple tax from Jesus and Peter...
The emotion here: gentle authority while teaching about submission
The original word
stater (στατήρ) — exact coin worth four drachmas, enough for Jesus and Peter
Why it matters
This temple tax funded daily sacrifices and temple maintenance, collected annually from every Jewish male over 20
Read with care
What most readers miss in Matthew 17:27
Jesus performed this miracle to avoid 'stumbling' others — He cared about His witness even over proving His rights
Common misconceptionPeople think this proves God will always provide money miraculously. But Jesus did this specifically to avoid offense, not because He owed the tax as God's Son.
The thread continues
Verses that echo Matthew 17:27
Bible Genome reading
Matthew 17:27 — Bible Genome reading
Emotional genome
Matthew 17:27 comes from the book of Matthew, written during the gospel period. These words are attributed to Jesus. The dominant emotion in this verse is resting, with a comfort power of 60% and a tone that is tender. It belongs to the narrative genre of biblical literature. Key themes include provision, miracle. Notable phrases: first fish; stater coin; lest we cause them to stumble. This verse contains a command.
Emotionally similar
Verses that meet the same resting
“Love is patient and is kind; love doesn't envy. Love doesn't brag, is not proud,”
— 1 Corinthians 13:4
“When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, "It is finished." He bowed his head, and gave up his spirit.”
— John 19:30
“Yahweh is my shepherd: I shall lack nothing.”
— Psalms 23:1
“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me. Your rod and your staff, they comfor…”
— Psalms 23:4
“"Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations. I will be exalted in the earth."”
— Psalms 46:10
Your reflection
What does Matthew 17:27 mean to you, today?
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