March 15, 2009: Jesus Clears the Temple
The text for this lesson is John 2:13–22.
Key Points
- Jesus’ cleansing of the temple carries a twofold message for the Jews and for us: first, that the true Lord of the temple was here in the flesh and, second and more important, that Jesus is the true temple, who houses and perfects us, raising our bodies to be like His.
- Law: I sin when I turn God’s house into a place of business, soiling His sanctuary.
- Gospel: Jesus is my holy temple who, by His sacrifice on the altar of the cross, purged my sin and made me a member of His Body.
Context
John recounts this cleansing at the fore-front of his Gospel in order to highlight it. Other evangelists place the same or a similar cleansing later, during Holy Week (e.g., Matthew 21:12–17). When worshipers arrived at the temple, usually from far away, they exchanged their “unclean” Greek currency for Jewish coinage. They used this cash to purchase animals for sacrifice, rather than leading (or dragging!) a lamb or ox all the way from their often distant homes.
Discussion Points and Questions
- What feast is being celebrated at the time of these events? Recall the meaning and significance of this feast. On how many different occasions does St. John refer to this feast? What great acts does Christ perform on these different occasions?
- Who is gathered in the temple? Why are they there? What is the problem with what they are doing?
- Describe what Jesus does in verses 15–16. Does this seem characteristic of Jesus when compared to the other parts of the Gospels? Consider the perceived inconsistencies in Jesus’ behavior, and discuss how His actions really are consistent with the rest of His ministry.
- From where does the quote about “zeal for my house” come? What is the context and meaning of that original passage, and what does it have to do with Christ clearing the temple?
- Jesus’ very act of cleansing the temple is a sign: it confirms the prophetic words of Psalm 69. Yet the Jews stubbornly seek another sign. What is the significance of their question and Jesus’ answer?
- In the days before Jesus was born, God was worshiped in His temple. Where do we worship God today? In what ways do we make our Father’s house a house of trade?
- How has God consecrated us to make us His temple? See 1 Corinthians 3:16.
- What is the significance for us that Jesus is the temple of God?
For next week, read Mark 12:41–44, the offering of the widow’s mite. Consider what true thankfulness means and think about what God really wants of us. Who needs our money, God or our neighbor?
