Still others said, "We had to borrow money to pay the royal tax on our fields and vineyards.

You make plans to ruin others; your tongue is like a sharp razor. You are always inventing lies.

The proud have told lies about me, but with all my heart I obey your instructions.

You are forbidden to collect any taxes from the priests, Levites, musicians, guards, workers, or anyone else connected with this Temple.

Jesus left that place, and as he walked along, he saw a tax collector, named Matthew, sitting in his office. He said to him, "Follow me." Matthew got up and followed him.

"Of course," Peter answered. When Peter went into the house, Jesus spoke up first, "Simon, what is your opinion? Who pays duties or taxes to the kings of this world? The citizens of the country or the foreigners?"

That is also why you pay taxes, because the authorities are working for God when they fulfill their duties.

Pay, then, what you owe them; pay them your personal and property taxes, and show respect and honor for them all.