Bible Society of South Africa

The Bible is very clear on the matter of paying tax. Because the Jews were under Roman rule, the question of tax in New Testament times was a very sensitive political issue. However, even in this instance the right of the government to levy tax is acknowledged by Christ while reminding us at the same time that we also have an obligation towards God.

"Jesus’ enemies kept watching him closely, because they wanted to hand him over to the Roman governor. So they sent some men who pretended to be good. But they were really spies trying to catch Jesus saying something wrong. The spies said to him, “Teacher, we know that you teach the truth about what God wants people to do. And you treat everyone with the same respect, no matter who they are. Tell us, should we pay taxes to the Emperor or not?’’ Jesus knew that they were trying to trick him. So he told them, “Show me a coin.’’ Then he asked, “Whose picture and name are on it?’’ “The Emperor’s,’’ they answered. Then he told them, “Give the Emperor what belongs to him and give God what belongs to God.’’ Luke 20:20-25

You must also pay your taxes. The authorities are God’s servants, and it is their duty to take care of these matters. Pay all that you owe, whether it is taxes and fees or respect and honour.  Romans 13:6-7

Many of us feel that all we do is work to pay taxes. Tax is sometimes difficult to understand. Even Einstein had this to say on the subject, "The hardest thing in the world to understand is income tax." Maybe true, but as Christians we must remember that the same ethical and moral values that apply to the rest of our lives also apply when we have to pay tax.

Prayer: Lord, help us to be honest in everything that we do, including when we pay our taxes. We ask this in your name. Amen