What does the Bible say about tax?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible presents taxes and required contributions as legitimate means of supporting public order, worship, and communal need, while condemning oppressive burdens and calling God’s people to faithful stewardship. Exodus 30:11-16 required a ransom offering for the service of the tabernacle, and Exodus 38:26 records its collection. Nehemiah 10:32 describes support for temple worship, while Luke 2:1 shows Roman taxation as part of civil government. Jesus acknowledged the temple tax in Matthew 17:24-27, yet displayed His freedom and provision. Scripture also warns that rulers may tax harshly, as in 2 Kings 23:35 and Nehemiah 5:3-4. Believers should honor rightful obligations, seek justice for the burdened, and trust God as the ultimate ruler and provider.
Study outline
Curated topical outlines from classic public-domain study works.
Nave's Topical Bible
- Poll Exodus 30:11-16; Exodus 38:26; Nehemiah 10:32; Luke 2:1
- Jesus pays Matthew 17:24-27
- Land Genesis 41:34; Genesis 41:48; 2 Kings 23:35
- Land mortgaged for Nehemiah 5:3; Nehemiah 5:4
- Priests exempted from Genesis 47:26; Ezra 7:24
- Paid in grain Amos 5:11; Amos 7:1
- Paid in provisions 1 Kings 4:7-28
- Personal 1 Kings 9:15; 2 Kings 15:19; 2 Kings 15:20; 2 Kings 23:35
- Resisted by Israelites 1 Kings 12:18; 2 Chronicles 10:18
- World-wide, levied by Caesar
- The R. V. changes the reading to enrolled instead of taxed Luke 2:1-3
- Collectors of 2 Samuel 20:24; 1 Kings 4:6; Isaiah 33:18; Daniel 11:20; Mark 2:14; Luke 3:13; Luke 5:27
- Unpopular Matthew 5:46; Matthew 9:11; Matthew 11:19; Matthew 18:17; Matthew 21:31; Luke 18:11
- Stoned 2 Chronicles 10:18
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