Paying taxes is part of life, and the Bible addresses this in several passages. Jesus himself acknowledged the importance of fulfilling civic duties, like paying taxes. Understanding the Bible’s view on taxes can help us appreciate our responsibilities and approach them with honesty.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Loaning Money
What Does The Bible Say About Taxes
Matthew 22:17-21
“Tell us then, what is your opinion? Is it right to pay the imperial tax to Caesar or not?” But Jesus, knowing their evil intent, said, “You hypocrites, why are you trying to trap me? Show me the coin used for paying the tax.” They brought him a denarius, and he asked them, “Whose image is this? And whose inscription?” “Caesar’s,” they replied. Then he said to them, “So give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.”
This verse teaches that it is appropriate for believers to pay taxes and fulfill their obligations to the earthly authorities. At the same time, it emphasizes the need to prioritize and give to God what rightfully belongs to Him. It reveals Jesus’ wisdom in navigating the complex issue of taxes while reminding Christians of their dual citizenship and responsibility towards both earthly and heavenly authorities.
Romans 13:6-7
“This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.”
The apostle Paul emphasizes the importance of fulfilling one’s financial obligations, including paying taxes, as an act of obedience to God. Christians are encouraged to acknowledge the authority of the governing bodies and contribute to the functioning of society by meeting their financial responsibilities. This verse highlights the principle of honoring earthly authorities and participating in the well-being of the community through faithful compliance with tax obligations.
Mark 12:17
“Then Jesus said to them, ‘Give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s.’ And they were amazed at him.”
In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the distinction between the obligations towards the government and the obligations towards God. He urges individuals to fulfill their civic duties while recognizing that their ultimate allegiance belongs to God. By paying taxes, Christians demonstrate their willingness to coexist within the society while remaining committed to their faith and priorities. This verse showcases Jesus’ wisdom and ability to bridge the gap between religious and political spheres of influence.
Proverbs 14:21
“Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinner, but blessed is he who is generous to the poor.”
This verse reminds believers that showing generosity and compassion towards others, especially those in need, is crucial. Paying taxes contributes to the welfare of society, with a portion allocated towards providing aid to the less fortunate. By fulfilling their financial obligations and supporting programs that assist the poor, Christians display a heart of compassion and fulfill their role in helping to alleviate the suffering of others.
1 Timothy 2:1-2
“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of praying for those in authority, including government leaders. By extension, it encourages believers to support the governing system through the payment of taxes. The act of taxation supports the stability and smooth functioning of society, allowing people to live peacefully and pursue their faith without unnecessary disruptions. Christians are called to actively contribute to the welfare of their communities by upholding their financial obligations, including paying their taxes.
Luke 3:13-14
“Don’t collect any more than you are required to,” he told [the tax collectors]. Then some soldiers asked him, “And what should we do?” He replied, “Don’t extort money and don’t accuse people falsely—be content with your pay.”
This verse speaks to the principle of integrity and fairness in financial matters, including taxation. It reminds tax collectors and government officials to perform their duties with honesty and not exploit others for personal gain. Likewise, it encourages soldiers and those in positions of power to refrain from misconduct and unjust treatment. This verse emphasizes the importance of conducting oneself ethically and responsibly in all aspects of life, including the collection and use of taxes.
Matthew 17:24-27
“After Jesus and his disciples arrived in Capernaum, the collectors of the two-drachma temple tax came to Peter and asked, ‘Doesn’t your teacher pay the temple tax?’ ‘Yes, he does,’ he replied. When Peter came into the house, Jesus was the first to speak. ‘What do you think, Simon?’ he asked. ‘From whom do the kings of the earth collect duty and taxes—from their own children or from others?’ ‘From others,’ Peter answered. ‘Then the children are exempt,’ Jesus said to him. ‘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.’”
This passage highlights a specific instance where Jesus instructs Peter on paying the temple tax. Jesus demonstrates his authority and provision by miraculously providing the necessary funds to fulfill their obligation. It showcases the sovereignty of God and serves as a reminder that He is capable of meeting our financial needs. Furthermore, it reinforces the principle of honoring financial responsibilities and fulfilling obligations, even when supernatural provisions may be required.
Acts 5:29
“Peter and the other apostles replied: ‘We must obey God rather than human beings!’”
This verse reflects the belief that obedience to God takes precedence over blind compliance with human authority. While believers are encouraged to pay taxes, there may be moments when obedience to God’s commands conflicts with the directives of earthly governing bodies. In such cases, the Bible asserts that Christians have a higher allegiance to God and His principles. However, this verse should not be used as an excuse to evade tax responsibilities but rather to discern when human authority contradicts divine will.
2 Corinthians 9:7
“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
This verse emphasizes the value of a generous and willing heart when it comes to financial contributions, including taxes. It encourages believers to give with joy and gratitude, rather than with reluctance or a sense of obligation. While taxes are a compulsory part of civic duty, this verse serves as a reminder to approach all financial responsibilities with a cheerful and willing attitude, reflecting a spirit of gratitude for God’s provision and blessings.
1 Peter 2:13-14
“Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority: whether to the emperor, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right.”
This verse underscores the importance of submitting to human authority as an act of obedience to God. Believers are called to respect and honor those in power, including government officials who enforce tax policies. By complying with tax obligations, Christians demonstrate their commitment to living in harmony with the authorities that have been established. This verse encourages Christians to be law-abiding citizens and supports the idea of fulfilling tax responsibilities as a way to demonstrate obedience and respect for human authority.
Titus 3:1
“Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good.”
In this verse, Christians are reminded of the importance of being submissive and obedient to governing authorities, including those responsible for implementing tax policies. By complying with tax laws and regulations, believers fulfill their role as law-abiding citizens and contribute to the well-being of society. The verse also emphasizes the readiness to engage in acts of good and responsible citizenship, of which fulfilling financial obligations, such as paying taxes, is a significant aspect.
Deuteronomy 14:22
“Be sure to set aside a tenth of all that your fields produce each year.”
While not directly addressing the topic of taxes, this verse speaks to the principle of giving a portion of one’s income for religious purposes. The concept of tithing involves setting aside a tenth of one’s earnings for the support of the religious community. While tithing differs from taxation, it highlights the responsibility of believers to contribute financially towards the betterment of society, including the support of religious institutions and the work they carry out.
2 Corinthians 8:12
“For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what one does not have.”
This verse encourages believers to give according to their means and ability, highlighting the importance of a willing heart rather than the amount itself. In the context of taxes, it reminds Christians that paying taxes should not be approached begrudgingly or with a scarcity mindset. Instead, it encourages a posture of generosity and willingness, recognizing that both the attitude and the action of fulfilling financial responsibilities hold significance in the eyes of God.
Exodus 30:13
“Each one who crosses over to those already counted is to give a half shekel, according to the sanctuary shekel, which weighs twenty gerahs. This half shekel is an offering to the LORD.”
While this verse specifically refers to an offering for the sanctuary in ancient Israel, it highlights the importance of contributing financially as an act of worship. Just as the Israelites were instructed to give an offering, Christians are called to fulfill their financial obligations, including paying taxes. By recognizing the value of financial contributions to support communal needs and societal welfare, believers participate in acts of worship and obedience to God.
Malachi 3:10
“Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the LORD Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.”
This verse speaks to the principle of giving back to God from one’s financial resources. While not directly relating to taxes, it highlights the concept of being faithful in contributions and trusting in God’s provision. Paying taxes can be viewed as part of the wider principle of financial stewardship, and this verse encourages believers to trust in God’s faithfulness and generous blessings when they faithfully fulfill their financial obligations.
1 Corinthians 6:12
“’I have the right to do anything,’ you say—but not everything is beneficial. ‘I have the right to do anything’—but I will not be mastered by anything.”
This verse reminds Christians to exercise discernment and wisdom in their choices, including matters concerning finances and taxes. While individuals may have the right to act in certain ways, it cautions against allowing anything to control or overpower them. This verse encourages believers to consider the broader implications of their actions and make choices that are beneficial, responsible, and align with their faith and values, which includes fulfilling their financial obligations, such as paying taxes.
Proverbs 3:9-10
“Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.”
This verse teaches the principle of honoring God with one’s wealth and the firstfruits of one’s labor. By extension, it encourages believers to honor God with their financial resources, including fulfilling their responsibilities towards the government, such as paying taxes. This verse emphasizes the benefits of faithful stewardship and highlights the loving provision of God. It encourages believers to prioritize their financial contributions and trust in God’s promises of abundance and provision.
Matthew 6:24
“No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.”
While this verse primarily addresses the conflict between serving God and material wealth, it serves as a reminder that believers are to prioritize their devotion to God above all else. When it comes to financial matters, including taxes, Christians are called to approach them with a heart that is focused on God rather than being solely motivated by monetary gain or personal interests. This verse encourages believers to maintain the correct perspective and ensure that their actions regarding financial obligations are aligned with the principles and values of their faith.
Romans 13:1
“Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.”
This verse emphasizes the divine establishment of governing authorities and the importance of submission to them. Recognizing that taxes are a part of an orderly society, Christians are encouraged to fulfill their responsibilities towards the government by paying taxes. This verse underscores the need for believers to be law-abiding citizens who respect the authorities established by God, understanding that their financial contributions serve a larger purpose in maintaining social order and promoting communal well-being.
Matthew 23:23
“Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices—mint, dill, and cumin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy, and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former.”
Although not specifically addressing taxes, this verse highlights the importance of valuing justice, mercy, and faithfulness when it comes to matters of the law. Jesus calls out the Pharisees for focusing on tithing in minute detail while neglecting the weightier matters of justice and mercy. This verse reminds believers that fulfilling financial obligations, including taxes, should never be done at the expense of showing justice, mercy, and faithfulness to others. It encourages a balanced approach that encompasses both financial responsibilities and caring for the well-being of fellow human beings.
Genesis 23:5
“The Hittites replied to Abraham, ‘…Hear us, my lord; you are a mighty prince among us. Bury your dead in the choicest of our tombs. None of us will refuse you his tomb for burying your dead.’
This verse highlights the importance of being respectful and honoring the customs and laws of the land. In the context of taxes, it encourages believers to recognize and fulfill their financial obligations as a way of participating in and respecting the functioning of society. Paying taxes demonstrates a commitment to economic stability and supports the infrastructure and services provided by the government for the benefit of all citizens.
Acts 17:24-25
“The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by human hands. And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything. Rather, he himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else.”
This verse serves as a reminder that God, as the creator of all things, does not rely on human-made systems or structures for His provision. While taxes play a role in society’s functioning, the ultimate provider is God Himself. Believers are encouraged to approach financial obligations, including paying taxes, with the understanding that their trust and dependence should ultimately be placed on God, who sustains and provides for their needs.