I was watching “Karate Kid” recently, and one of the scenes in particular caught me off guard. In this scene, Daniel-son said to Mr. Miyogi, “Why am I learning all this stuff about form? I want to learn how to punch.” Mr. Miyogi said, “Do you think that’s what karate is all about, fighting?” He answered correctly, “No!” It was about mastering the art of avoiding unnecessary conflict, redirecting energy rather than wasting it on battles that don’t require brute force. Not every battle is worth fighting, not because you can’t win, but because it’s not worth the toll it takes.
“From whom do the kings of the earth collect customs or poll-tax, from their sons or from strangers?”
Matt 17:25b
Sons of the kingdom are free, but their freedom carries the responsibility of discernment, humility, and love to avoid placing unnecessary stumbling blocks.
In our first study this week on Matt. 17:25, we affirmed a radical truth: “The sons are free.” Jesus affirms His divine right as the Son of the King; making Him exempt both legally and spiritually from paying the temple tax. Yet, He immediately pivots to embracing responsibility, instructing Peter to pay the tax for them both. Freedom in the kingdom isn’t reckless; it’s mindful. Rom. 14:13 tells us we should make up in our minds not to put a stumbling block or obstacle in our brother’s way. The power of the Son was never in evading taxes or proving status, but in displaying humility and discernment. Jesus pays what He doesn’t owe, not as a sign of defeat, but to model restraint, humility, and wisdom.
Here, Jesus reshapes our paradigm—introducing a kingdom mindset where sonship is defined not by entitlement but by discernment. Sons don’t scramble to prove themselves; they operate from a position of assurance grounded in identity. Even Sons are called to consider their influence. In a culture consumed with “I know my rights”, personal freedom often trumps relational responsibility. From social media debates to political standoffs, everyone wants to be heard, validated, and justified. Still, the Kingdom way flips this on its head, revealing that sometimes the greatest strength is in yielding. From family tensions or workplace policies, our call is consistent; reflect the heart of Christ in all things.
The goal isn’t to win arguments, it’s to win hearts. As a daughter of God, I’m often reminded that even though I have this incredible freedom in Christ, it must be stewarded with care. There are times when I feel the urge to assert my rights, only later to grieve the damage my pride has done. Jesus didn’t flex His rights, and neither should I. Sometimes the best response is quiet obedience and gentle wisdom. I’m convinced the world doesn’t need another opinionated Christian; it needs to see sons and daughters who reflect the character of their Father and imitating Christ.
Time of Reflection:
** Your rights may be valid, but every occasion isn’t the right time to assert them.
** If Jesus left the example of humility over offense for me to follow, I should think twice before puffing up in pride, demanding my own way.
Heart-probe moment:
Where is God asking me to yield today so that someone else might see Him more clearly through me?
Scripture References:
Matthew 17:25-27
Romans 14:13
1 Corinthians 8:9-13
Galatians 5:13
Philippians 2:5-8
1 Peter 2:16
Reference to Chronological question: Thomas Nelson Chronological Study bible
Closing prayer:
Heavenly Father, Thank You for reminding me during this time that I’m never exempt from my obligation to love everyone in the way You love them. Teach me when yielding in submission is not weakness but strength through wisdom. I pray for discernment to know when to stay silent and when to speak up. And I ask that my freedom never causes offense to others who are trying to serve You wholeheartedly. In Jesus name. Amen
