March 19, 2024

Matthew 21:12-13 (HCSB)
Cleansing the Temple Complex
12 Jesus went into the temple complex and drove out all those buying and selling in the temple. He overturned the money changers’ tables and the chairs of those selling doves.13 And He said to them, “It is written, My house will be called a house of prayer. But you are making it a den of thieves!”

Trey Manor
It was a contemporary expectation that the Messiah would come and cleanse the temple. At the time of Jesus’ arrival, some items such as doves were sold in the temple for up to 20 times their value. This difference in prices inside the temple versus in nearby villages significantly impacted the Jewish people who traveled to Jerusalem and had to purchase their sacrifice from within the temple. Jesus’ actions did not bring lasting change to the temple - trade likely continued later in the week - yet it was another proclamation of his true identity and purpose. Additionally, the outer courts where trade was taking place were the only place Gentiles were allowed to pray in the temple. Even before the cross, Jesus was actively inviting all nations to know and praise Him. Again, Jesus also quotes Isaiah and claims his Godly identity.