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What Does The Bible Really Say About Taxes?
Benjamin Franklin once said, “In this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.” While there may be some other things in life that are certain, Franklin certainly was not far off with this statement. But are taxes biblical? To what extent can a government reasonably tax its people? Perhaps the Bible can shine some light on this issue.
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).
Source: http://www.offthegridnews.com/religion/what-does-the-bible-really-say-about-taxes/
