PODCAST
Flashback
June 19th, 2014
John 2:13-25
A significant theme in the story of “The Cleansing of the Temple” in John 2 is remembering. Both in verses 17 and 22 we are told specifically that the memories of the disciples are being prompted. It isn’t surprising that the vision of their passionate, even aggressive, Lord purifying His Father’s house would be memorable.
As we dig more deeply, the disciple’s memories help the reader interpret the events. Specifically, “His disciples remembered that it is written: ‘Zeal for your house will consume me’” (John 2:17). The disciples remembered Psalm 69, one of the most quoted of the Psalms in the New Testament, which also provides context.
The Psalm paints a stark light-and-shadow image of God-on-earth. The pure Messiah cleansing a defiled temple, the loving Lord hated (Psalm 69:4), the sinless Savior scorned (Psalm 69:7), the majestic Messiah mocked (Psalm 69:12), etc. On earth in AD 30, the Lord is in a place that doesn’t do Him justice, quite literally. He is a stranger.
Why did He come then? He came in pursuit of His people, plain and simple.
Author: Brian Charette
June 19th, 2014 at 10:47 pm
“Stop turning my Father’s house into a market.” Jesus was passionate about this! My heart aches for churches who are today buying and selling in the church, yet claiming to teach and exemplify Christ. What a price they may pay, including the wrath of their Savior!