Taxes in the Old Testament
It is always prudent to look at Israel for direction on God’s intention for how a government should operate. While there are some things today that did not exist back then, the Mosaic Law established parameters by which the nation would function with God as its Head. At a quick glance one might argue that Israel did not pay taxes and therefore taxes are not necessary. However, the people of Israel did give of their livestock, money, harvests, etc. for the ministry of the temple, festivals, and the like. The tithe requirement also was established. While these are not taxes per se, they are sacrifices made by the people of Israel for corporate functions and provisions for the poor (Deuteronomy 14:28-29, 24:17-22). And they were not voluntary.
Fast-forward a few hundred years to when Israel asked for a king (1 Samuel 8). Samuel warned the people of Israel that a king would take of their possessions and make them his own, taking a 10th of their grain and livestock, as well as taking their land and other resources.
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The people of Israel rejected his warning and again asked for a king. Their request was granted, and Saul was made king over them (1 Samuel 10).
Taxes in the New Testament
Jesus also affirmed this when he was questioned as to whether or not it was lawful to pay taxes to Caesar. “‘Why put me to the test, you hypocrites? Show me the coin for the tax.’ And they brought him a denarius. And Jesus said to them, ‘Whose likeness and inscription is this?’ They said, ‘Caesar’s.’ Then he said to them, ‘Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s’” (Matthew 22:18-21). The money ultimately belongs to God, but if the government requires taxes, we as citizens must submit to that.
While taxes might not be a favorite subject of many, they are biblical. Thankfully, we have the freedom in our nation to vote out those politicians who desire to increase taxes if we so choose; however, if elected officials approve new taxes, we cannot use the Bible to justify not paying them.
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