Matthew 17

See notes at Mark 9.

     17:22-27.  Two drachmas equal a half shekel “according to the shekel of the sanctuary”, (see Ex.30:11-16).  The stater (v.27, margin) was equivalent to such a shekel (or four drachmas).  Thus the stater paid the tax for two people.  Ex.30 calls this tax a ransom, an atonement to the Lord.  This is why the sons are exempt.  The sons of the kingdom become sons by a once for all ransom paid by Christ (22-23).  But in the meantime Jesus avoids even the appearance of evil, so as to cause no one to stumble.