The Coin in the Fish's Mouth
Jesus tells Peter to cast a hook and find a coin in the first fish to pay the temple tax.
When the temple tax collectors came to Peter, Jesus instructed him: 'Go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee.'
Capernaum, on the Sea of Galilee
What Happened
Key KJV Scriptures
"Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee."
Spiritual Significance
This unique miracle shows Christ's authority over creation and His humble willingness to live under earthly obligations rather than cause needless offense.
Lesson for Today
Jesus provides exactly what is needed, exactly when it is needed. He cares about both our witness and our daily obligations.
Key People
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of coin was it?
A 'piece of money' (Greek: stater), worth a shekel — exactly the temple tax for two men.
Why didn't Jesus owe the temple tax?
As the Son of the King whose house the temple was, He was free. Yet He paid 'lest we should offend them' — a lesson in laying down rights for love.
Where in the Bible is the miracle of The Coin in the Fish's Mouth?
The miracle of The Coin in the Fish's Mouth is recorded in Matthew 17:27 (KJV).
Who performed the miracle of The Coin in the Fish's Mouth?
Scripture records that Jesus Christ carried out this miracle at Capernaum, on the Sea of Galilee. Ultimately the power belonged to God, who alone does wondrous things (Psalm 72:18).
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