This message explores Jesus cleansing the Temple. Why does John place it here when the other gospels place it later? What is the writer trying to tell us?
(John 2:13-25)
Sermon Outline
“So he made a whip out of cords, and drove all from the temple courts, both sheep and cattle; he scattered the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables.” (John 2:15)
Frustration about Cluttering God’s House
- John’s framing of Jesus’ cleansing of the Temple
- The heart of the concern: Jesus as the fulfillment and entry point to God
- → How might we clutter God’s house?
The Temple and the Temple
- The Second Temple of Jesus’ time – destroyed again in 70
- Jesus as the True Second Temple – crucified but raised up again
- → Is there a difference between ‘religion’ and ‘relationship’?
Finding Our Way In (Hebrews 4:14-16)
- Jesus the Son of God who is our high priest
- Jesus who was tempted like us but did not sin
- Jesus who is the perfect sacrifice that opens the way to God
- Jesus who gives us boldness to approach God and find mercy and grace
The Journey with Jesus
- Come and see (John 1:39)
- Lingering with Jesus (John 1:39)
- Believing (John 1:41, 45, 49; 2:23)
- Following (2:12)
- Believing again more deeply (2:17, 22)
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
- When have you felt on the “outside”? What did it feel like? When has someone helped you find the way to be on the “inside”? What happened?
- This week we continue our new sermon series “Look for the Signs,” by focusing on John 2:13-35. Whether on your own or with others, begin your study in prayer, asking God to speak to you, and then read that portion aloud.
- Background: The Synoptic gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke) record Jesus’ clearing the temple late in their accounts just before Jesus’ arrest and crucifixion. Although debated, John likely places his account earlier to make a theological point, thus framing Jesus’ entire ministry around the Passover as a means to highlight who Jesus is.
- What does Jesus do in verses 13-17? What do you think Jesus was trying to do or symbolize with this action?
- Apparently, Jesus’ earlier sign (water into wine in 2:1-12) hadn’t reached Jerusalem, so the Jewish leaders asked for another sign. How does Jesus respond to this question and what did he mean by it?
- What might be potential ways contemporary Christianity clutters or puts up barriers hindering others from truly encountering God?
- Verses 17 and 22 both provide later perspective from the disciples on these events. What insights did they later come to understand?
- It is helpful to realize that we can always grow and know more in our life of faith? How would you describe the difference between continuing to grow and plateauing in faith?
- The final few verses reflect the difference between basic belief and total following of Jesus. What does Jesus know about the human heart and what does that say about who Jesus is?
- What is one thing you sense God is bringing to your attention through this week’s study? If you are with a small group, discuss that with one another and then pray about what you shared. If you are on your own, write it down, pray about it, and consider sharing your thoughts with someone this week.
DIG DEEPER
Exploring Faith
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There is an invitation in this passage to once again “come and see” who Jesus is. What are you seeking? What might it mean to more intentionally enter a journey of searching out how Jesus is, either on your own with a Bible reading plan (such as bible.com/reading-plans/876-before-the-cross-the-life-of-jesus) or with others through this sermon series?
Growing in Faith
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Looking back, how have you grown in your faith over the years? What were some key moments of breakthroughs in growth you can identify?
Centered in Faith
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The religious leaders seemed to miss the point of what was happening both in the Jerusalem Temple and with Jesus. Even as we grow in our faith it doesn’t mean we don’t have blind spots. Ask God to reveal any blind spots in your faith. Take time to be still and listen over the course of the next week.