Jesus Cleanses the Temple: Confronting Profit Over Purpose
- meetgodattheedgeof
- Aug 18
- 2 min read
John 2:16
“Then, going over to the people who sold doves, he told them, ‘Get these things out of here. Stop turning my Father’s house into a marketplace!’”
What a powerful verse today. My hope is that this opens everyone's eyes.
When Jesus cleanses the temple, He reminds us that God’s house is meant for prayer and worship—not profit or self-serving agendas. This applies today just as much as it did back then. Sure, there were travelers who needed sacrifices or money exchanged, but the focus had shifted from service to profit. Even worse, it was happening right in front of the temple. Instead of a sacred space for prayer and praise, it had been reduced to a marketplace.
I’ve traveled a bit, and some of my favorite churches are in Texas. Some of the most confusing are also in Texas. I’ve seen everything from Starbucks-like coffee shops to book and gift stores inside church buildings. Not a single thing is free other than maybe a pen or shirt for newcomers. I’m not complaining about buying a coffee if I wanted one, but if I’m honest, it does feel strange. Almost like profit first.
On the other hand, I’ve been blessed by churches that open their pantry and coffee stations to all who wish to share a cup and fellowship. Some of the most meaningful conversations I’ve ever had were over free church coffee with a brother or sister who was struggling. That’s the kind of service that reflects Jesus’ heart when He cleansed the temple.
Churches should be examples of dependency on the Lord. Yes, God can use a fundraiser for a new building, but it all depends on how leaders approach it. Do they see a financial need and immediately try to solve it on their own? Or do they first drop to their knees and ask the Lord for direction?
When I was younger, churches felt like the place anyone could go for help. A few still are, but sadly some have become so focused on saving money that they miss the opportunities God puts right in front of them to serve their communities.
The encouragement here is to pray about everything. Be sure you are on the right track before making decisions—especially those that affect many people. Don’t trust your own understanding, but in every need, seek His will. Just as Jesus cleanses the temple, He can also cleanse our hearts and priorities when we let Him lead.
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.”
