MARK 11:15-17
This Sunday, we watched as Jesus entered the temple and, in righteous anger, overturned the tables of those who had turned a place of worship into a place of profit. His words rang out: “My house will be called a house of prayer for all nations.” (Isaiah 56:7). Yet, the temple had become a den of robbers (Jeremiah 7:11). Those meant to facilitate worship had instead exploited it. The very place where people sought the presence of God had become cluttered with distractions.
1. Why Was Jesus Angry?
Jesus was not just confronting a corrupt system—He was fighting for unhindered access to God. The temple was meant to be a place of prayer, but it had become a marketplace. Today, we must ask: What might be getting in the way of encountering God? What distractions, desires, or false securities are cluttering the space where God wants to dwell?
Reflection: Is there anything in my life that is competing for the space only God should occupy?
“I am at rest in God alone; my salvation comes from Him. He alone is my rock and my salvation, my stronghold; I will never be shaken.” (Psalm 62:1-2)
2. Where Do We Encounter God Now?
After Jesus’ death, the temple curtain was torn (Luke 23:44-45). The presence of God was no longer confined to a building—it now dwells among His people. We are the temple. God’s Spirit lives within us, and He is present when we gather.
Reflection: Do I come to church expecting to meet with God among His people?
“Don’t you yourselves know that you are God’s temple and that the Spirit of God lives in you?” (1 Corinthians 3:16)
3. What Now?
Jesus’ anger was not just about the temple then—it’s about our hearts now. If something is standing between us and God, it must be overturned. But the good news is this: God desires to be present with us! He invites us into real intimacy with Him.
Take action this week:
- Spend time in prayer, not just asking for things, but simply being with God.
- Meditate on Psalm 62—what does it reveal about where your trust lies?
- Confess distractions or burdens to a trusted brother or sister in Christ.
- Encourage someone this week with a passage of Scripture.
- Share the good news with a neighbor who needs to know God’s presence is near.
We are not alone. We are saved as a people, and He is with us. Let’s press into that truth together!
See you Sunday—expecting to meet with God among His people!