Freedom in Christ

The story of the coin in the fish’s mouth, found in Matthew 17:24–27, offers us a glimpse into the grace and freedom that Jesus offers each one of us. When confronted with the question of paying the temple tax, Jesus reminds Peter that the children of the King are free. Through this unusual encounter, we discover a truth that reaches far beyond a simple tax payment: that our broken relationship with God is not healed through religious duties or human efforts, but by the unmerited favor of God revealed in Jesus Christ.

As we explore this passage and read Robert Capon’s meditation on this story, we are invited to reconsider what it means to live in the Kingdom of God. Too often, we approach faith as though we must earn God’s favor through our good deeds, religious practices, or spiritual achievements. Yet the gospel announces a radically different message . . .