The Money Changers

The weekend before his death, Jesus Christ made two entrances into Jerusalem. On the second trip he entered into the temple and cleaned out the money changers in the court of the gentiles at the temple. It was here that corrupt sales of sacrificial animals and currency exchanges were carried on. People came from all over to worship at the temple. It was convenient to buy sacrificial animals at the temple for those people who were not familiar with Jerusalem. Prices were higher because of the convenience.

Isaiah 56:6-76 Also the sons of the stranger, that join themselves to the Lord, to serve him, and to love the name of the Lord, to be his servants, every one that keepeth the sabbath from polluting it, and taketh hold of my covenant; 7 Even them will I bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer: their burnt offerings and their sacrifices shall be accepted upon mine altar; for mine house shall be called an house of prayer for all people.

God's house was supposed to be a house of prayer for all people. Can you imagine what it would be like in an area with a bunch of animals and exchange transactions going on. It would certainly not be conducive to prayer!  Not only that, this area had become a den of thieves. Jesus cleaned them out and then taught and healed people.

Several days later Jesus would become the once-and-for-all sacrifice that would cleanse and make way for a New Testament that would allow the Holy of Holies to permeate everyman's heart if he so chose. The day of Pentecost was around the corner whereby their hearts could be purified with the fire from above. The temple was to become one not made with hands. It is alive and dynamic!

Israel had become like the fig tree Jesus had seen on the way to Jerusalem that very day. From afar it appeared healthy and sound with its leaves, but upon closer examination, he could see there were no buds and thus would produce no fruit. God permeating anyone's life produces rich, productive fruit.
Israel had become dull and unproductive to the point that they could not recognize God's son.

Religious tradition wrapped in old wineskins breeds unfruitfulness. Jesus Christ arose from the dead. For what? Why?  From tradition (you can't get real answers from the Easter bunny!) and massive systems of religion? Absolutely not!

The resurrection of Jesus Christ brings dawn into every individual heart that calls on him.

11 For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.12 For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. 13 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. Romans 10:11-13

This is the way, the truth and the light. It is reality!