A notable theme in the New Testament writings is the numerous positive, obedient, and acceptant references towards paying taxes to Rome.[1]
Jesus was referred to as a “friend of tax collectors.”
When Jesus was asked if it was lawful to pay taxes to Rome, Jesus responded, “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s.”
In another written story regarding the payment of the half-shekel tax,
One of the twelve disciples was highlighted as being a tax collector (Matthew/Levi).
While staying the night in Jericho, Jesus stayed with the chief tax collector, Zacchaeus.
The Jewish people detested paying taxes to Rome – many even considering the profession of tax collector as sinful.
Jesus’ teachings and actions were well in line with Roman goals to change this attitude.
[1] Matthew 9:9-10 11:19 17:24-27 21:31 22:17-21, Mark 2:14-15 12:14-17, Luke 3:13 5:27-29 7:29 7:34 15:1 18:10-13 19:1-10 20:22-25
[2] Matthew 11:19, Luke 7:34
[3] Matthew 22:21, Mark 12:17, Luke 20:25
[4] Matthew 17:24-27
[5] Matthew 9:9-10
[6] Luke 19:1-7
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