What Does the Bible Really Say About Paying Taxes?

The Bible has a lot to say about money, including paying taxes. In Matthew 22:21, Jesus says, “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s and to God the things that are God’s.” This is often interpreted to mean that Christians should pay their taxes. However, some verses say we should not worry about money but instead focus on God. So, what does the Bible say about paying taxes?

Why paying taxes is important.

Paying taxes is one of the most important things that Americans can do. Not only does it show our civic responsibility, but it also helps to fund critical programs and services that we all rely on.

Without taxes, our government would be unable to provide for our national defense, maintain our roads and bridges, or support vital social programs like Social Security and Medicaid. In short, paying taxes is how we collectively invest in the future of our country.

Of course, nobody likes paying taxes. But as Christians, we are called to be good stewards of the resources God has given us. That means using our money to support the common good and ensure everyone has a chance to thrive.

The Bible and paying taxes

The Bible has a lot to say about money, including paying taxes. In Matthew 22:21, Jesus says, “Render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar’s.” This is often interpreted as meaning that we should pay our taxes. And in Romans 13:6-7, the Apostle Paul writes, “For because of this you also pay taxes, for rulers are servants of God, devoting themselves to this very thing. Render to all what is due them: tax to whom tax is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor.”

So it seems clear that the Bible teaches us to pay our taxes. But why? Perhaps it is because taxes support the government and its work of keeping order and justice in society. Or maybe it is because paying taxes is a way of showing respect for authority. Perhaps it is because taxes provide for the common good. Or maybe it is just because we have to pay our taxes or go to jail.

Jesus’ teaching on paying taxes

The Pharisees asked Jesus if it was lawful to pay Caesar’s taxes. In response, Jesus asked for a coin and said, “Render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and unto God the things that are God’s” (Luke 20:25). This statement has been interpreted differently. Still, some Christians believe we should obey the government and pay taxes.

Paul’s teaching on paying taxes

Paul’s teaching on paying taxes is pretty clear: pay your taxes. In Romans 13:6-7, Paul says that believers must pay taxes and that government officials are God’s servants.

So, what does that mean for us today? First, it means that we should be good citizens and obey the laws of the land. That includes paying our taxes. It’s not always easy, but we must do our part.

All legal tax deductions are available to us. We don’t have to pay as much tax as possible. You can take a tax break if the government gives it to you. You can shelter money you earn from taxation in any legal way. You must reject illegal and/or dishonest ways of evading taxes. Romans 13.2 warns us, “whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against God’s established order, and those who do this will be brought to justice.”

Christians believe that God owns all we have. We are called to be stewards and are asked to invest our money and resources in things of eternal value.

1 Timothy 5:8 and 2 Corinthians 9:6-8 are two of the most important responsibilities. We are to provide for our families and to live a life of generosity.

It is wise to save ( Proverbs 6:6-8), and it is acceptable to spend money on yourself and to thank God for His gifts ( Colossians 3;17 ).

Taxes are a duty that citizens must pay. Christians are called to be good citizens. But Christians are citizens of heaven ( Philippians 3:20). Our goal should be to invest in God’s kingdom forever, not reduce our tax burden.

Secondly, Paul’s teaching reminds us that the government is not our enemy. They are there to serve and protect us. We may not always agree with everything they do, but we can trust that they have our best interests at heart.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Bible has a lot to say about paying taxes. God wants us to be good stewards of our resources and to use them to bless others. We are also called to submit to the authorities and obey the laws of the land. Taxes are one way that we can do this.