There is a lot to learn and discern from the stories of Jesus in the Bible. When examined, He gives us illustrations on how to live.

One such example is from Mathew 17:24-26. Jesus is discussing the temple tax with Peter, using questions to gain understanding and to instruct. After the discussion, Jesus determines that they (He and Peter) will pay the tax. Why? So not to be an offense.

 “But so that we may not cause offense, go to the lake and throw out your line. Take the first fish you catch; open its mouth and you will find a four-drachma coin. Take it and give it to them for my tax and yours.”

Jesus teaches again in this passage that He is the King, that He is the Son of God. Yet He teaches and models humility by not making it an issue, but by submitting. Not because He has to, but because He wants to eliminate unnecessary offense.

Thoughts for us: Do we ask the right questions? Do they bring us and our teams to conclusions?  Are we willing to lay down our rights to avoid offenses?

Written by By Steve Crawford