The Life and Ministry of Jesus
And He said to those who sold doves, “Take these things away! Do not make My Father’s house a house of merchandise!” Then His disciples remembered that it was written, “Zeal for Your house has eaten Me up.” John 2:16–17
Jesus protested the turning of His Father’s house into a market. He did not protest the sacrificial system itself. The purpose of the sacrifices was in danger of being lost. In the second cleansing of the temple toward the end of His ministry, Jesus’ attack was sharper. Then He called the temple area “a den of robbers.” Jesus frequently referred to God as “My Father.” Only through Jesus can the Father be known. “No one knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal Him” (Matt. 11:27). 1
Personal Encouragement
Have you allowed worldly merchandise to occupy a place of idolatry in your heart? Do you possess your possessions, or do they possess you?
Has this house, which is called by My name, become a den of thieves in your eyes? Behold, I, even I, have seen it,” says the Lord. Jeremiah 7:11
Why not behave like you’re always living in your Father’s house.
A Prayer
Lord, may I always have godly zeal to serve You with godly passion.
1. Walvoord, John F., & Zuck, R. B., Dallas Theological Seminary. (1985). The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.
