Matthew 21:12-17 Jesus entered the temple area and drove out all who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves. “It is written,” he said to them, “‘My house will be called a house of prayer,’ but you are making it a ‘den of robbers.'” (NIV)
Jesus was facing mighty opposition from the Pharisees that were plotting to kill Him, so why would He confront these merchants that were selling doves to be used as sacrifices and call such attention to himself? Jesus was righteously angry at the evil He saw before Him. He could not stand still and allow His Father’s house to be desecrated or demeaned. These men were making unlawful gains off the needs of others, and they were in need of judgment. Jesus called them robbers and condemned their activity. He rightly wanted to see His house used for prayer and worship not for unlawful gain, greed and dishonoring activity. What about you – when was the last time you got really angry when you saw someone misrepresenting the Lord, using His name in vain or taking advantage of others to satisfy their own greed? Just like Jesus, we need to stand up and stand firm when confronted with evil. This is easier said than done, but God desires that we stand up in His name when we see injustice that is ungodly. In those circumstances we need to pray and seek God’s guidance, strength and courage. God desires us to be righteous and walk with Him in righteousness.
Will you pray and stand firmly with the Lord, seek His guidance and strength when you see evil practices that are an affront to God?
Living for Jesus demands strength and courage,
Linda
The Western Wall is the closest place to the Temple where Jews can stand and pray.
Western Wall with the Temple Mount area in the background.
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