Friday, September 15, 2017

Tempest in the Temple

TODAY’S SPECIAL: John 2: 13-17

TO CHEW ON: “...Stop turning my Father’s house into a market!” John 2:16

Jesus and His disciples went to the temple in Jerusalem for Passover. To celebrate the Passover, every worshiper had to offer an animal sacrifice and pay a tax. In Jesus’ time, the priests sold the sacrifice animals in the temple court (the outside section, like our lobby or foyer). They charged huge amounts of money for these birds and animals. They wouldn’t sacrifice any animals that weren’t bought from them.

"Jesus clears the temple" - Artist unknown
"Jesus clears the temple" - Artist unknown

The tax had to be paid in temple coins. Money changers changed people’s everyday money into temple coins but they charged extra to make the exchange.

Jesus was furious when He went into the temple and found the priests were more concerned about making money than worshiping God.

"Jesus clears the temple" - Artist Unknown
"Jesus clears the temple" - Artist Unknown

Do we buy and sell things in our churches today? Do you think this is a good or bad thing?

PRAYER: Dear God, help me always to respect my church and use it as a place to meet with and worship You. Amen.


SUPERSIZE IT: First Passover
Jesus and His disciples went to the temple to celebrate Passover. Read about the first Passover in Exodus 12:1-13.

"The Passover" - Artist unknown
"The Passover" - Artist unknown

What things were part of the Passover celebration?

bitter herbs     Easter eggs
bells            bread without yeast
salt             blood
palm branches    cross
lamb             roasted meat

ANSWERS
 
 
Adult readers - DAILY DEVOTIONS FOR ADULTS  are available too at Other Food: daily devo's

Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations are taken from THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

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