But so that we do not cause them to stumble, go to the sea, cast a hook, and take the first fish that comes up. Open its mouth and there you will find a stater. Take it and give it to them for Me and for you.”
Although Jesus, as the Son of God, was free from the temple tax, He commands Peter to pay it so as not to cause offense, that is, so that people would not think He dishonors the temple. Here Jesus also performs a miracle, showing His almighty power even in a small matter: He sends Peter to catch a fish, in whose mouth there will be exactly one stater, for the tax of two people (Jesus and Peter). This reveals both Christ’s divine knowledge and authority over nature, and His humble heart—to give even where He has no debt. This scene testifies that true freedom is often expressed through a voluntary concession made for the sake of peace.