Topic(s):  Bible Study

Todd Clippard

I don't have anything specific on the text in question. My studies lead me to believe the moneychangers were charging to high a rate of exchange. The Jewish traders had quite a scheme going on. Those who sold animals would only accept Jewish money for their wares. Therefore, those Jews who came from afar had to exchange their normal currency for Jewish currency, and the exchangers were making a killing at the expense of their brethren.

The temple was a place of worship designed by God and built for His glory and honor. To allow animals to be brought in and conduct the profane business of that time was too much for Jesus to take.

I have no doubt that the sacrifices were acceptable, but local Jews had their "out-of-town" brothers "over a barrel" and were taking gross advantage of them.