Destroy This Temple: Summary of John 2:12-25

by Teresa^(1,654) Bronze Star

READ Chapter 2:12-25

After the wedding in Galilee, Jesus went to Capernaum, where He continued to reveal Himself as the authoritive Son of God. First by His actions in the temple (Why did He get angry?), then by His prophetic words regarding The Temple.

We read that His mother, His brothers, and His disciples accompanied Him during His stay for the Passover feast. (At this point His brothers were still unsure of Jesus as the Messiah. Proof that it is okay to watch, listen, and learn before actually coming to faith in Jesus Christ.)

Before the death and resurrection of Jesus, the Old Testament system of sacrifice was still in place. As the Jews gathered to participate in Passover, many of the people did not/could not bring their own animals for the sacrifice. Instead, they would purchase the animals in Jerusalem on the temple grounds.

Unfortunately, the merchants used that time to take advantage of the people and roobed them by overcharging. They saw it as an opportunity to make a quick profit. Additionally, the moneychangers (For those who did not have the local currency), were charging unfair exchange rates.

This angered Jesus for at least two reasons.

1) They were using God's atoning sacrifice for sin as a means of earning an unfair income.

2) They did this on temple grounds, showing a lack of respect for God.

Jesus displays His authority over the temple by making a whip of cords, rebuking the people, and kicking them out of the temple.

Just after Jesus spoke the words, "Do not make My Father's house a house of merchandise!" His disciples and many others around Him remembered the prophetic words spoken in Psalm 69:9

This stirred the hearts of many and they wondered if He was the Messiah, so they asked Him for a sign - A sign that would confirm their thoughts.

"Jesus answered and said to them, 'Destroy this temple, and in three days, I will raise it up" John 2:19

They were stunned that He could say such a thing, some responded with mockery. What they didn't realize was that He wasn't talking about the temple built with hands.

Rather, He was speaking of Himself, "Destroy This Temple". I can see Him pointing at Himself as He spoke.

Verse 22 tells us that after Jesus rose from the dead, His disciples remembered that He said those exact words. Many believed in Him while He was in Jerusalem because of the things He said and did.

Jesus did not get too comfortable, nor did He commit to those people for He still had much to do and much to teach. He understood that though many believed, not all would continue to follow Him. Some were focused on His signs and wonders, but the time would come when it wouldn't be popular to follow Him.

Looking at some of the things that go on in church today, I wonder - would Jesus turn our tables and kick us out? Or more appropriately, we as believers are the Temple of God - what are we participating in that would show a lack of respect for God? Do we make the sacrifice of Jesus a mockery by the things in which we participate?

There is so much more to learn from this portion of Scripture. We have only touched on the basics.

For deeper understanding, join us in our discussion as we look closer at the Old Testament system of sacrifice and the care that was put into the building of the temple that stood during the time Jesus was on earth.

Discussion questions

Stay tuned for John Chapter 3.

May the Lord continue to bless you as you grow in the wisdom and knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

To read about the connection between Passover and Jesus click here.

Article submitted Saturday, December 18, 2010 & read 324 times.

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» left by Lance (1 year 151 days ago.)

I'm not convinced they didn't understand what Jesus was saying about rebuilding the temple. Here's why I say that. There are two words used for "temple" in that passage. When speaking of the building Jesus used the word that referred to the physical building. When he spoke of himself - the temple to be rebuilt in 3 days - he used a word that actually meant the presence residing in the temple. In the common speech it would have not have been so subtle as it is in English. Jesus claimed to be God many times and this was another one of them. No wonder they were so incredulous. I just thought you might like to know. ~_*

» left by Teresa Ortiz (1 year 151 days ago.)

Hi Lance.

Yes, you are correct and I agree, I think this is why it was probably a mocking response. However, I also think that others did not know and where unsure how he could make that claim. Thank you for your input and adding this thought, which helps clarify. So glad I have you have my back . ( Not being incredulous)

I also think it made a huge statement when he cleared the temple. I am sure there were those who thought, who does he think he is.

:-) Merry Christmas to you and your family!

» left by Anonymous (1 year 151 days ago.)

P.S Keep praying, I believe one of the girls in the group is very close to surrendering her life to Jesus!'

» left by Marijo Phelps⁽¹⁸⁰⁾ (1 year 142 days ago.)

No pablum here but meat - thanks for the research and work it is taking for this study - for challenging us to think and pray through. I have wondered about some of the things which go on within the house of God too... very interesting. I don't have a lot of answers except to pray. Love you Sister!

» left by Teresa^(1,654) (1 year 142 days ago.)

Hi Marijo. You are welcome. It is my pleasure and privilege. I pray that I will again have a lot more time on my hands so that I can be more thorough. I am glad you are challenged and prayerful.

Love you too! Teresa

We appreciate your comments!

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