Topical Bible: Temple: Herod the Great's Temple: Jesus Teaches In

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Herod the Great's Temple, often referred to as the Second Temple, was a grand reconstruction of the original temple built by Zerubbabel. Herod's ambitious project began around 20-19 BC and was not fully completed until decades after his death. This temple stood as a central place of worship and a symbol of Jewish identity until its destruction in AD 70 by the Romans. It was in this magnificent edifice that Jesus of Nazareth, the Messiah, conducted much of His teaching and ministry, fulfilling the prophecies and foreshadowing the new covenant.

Jesus' Early Visit to the Temple

The Gospels recount that Jesus first visited the temple as a child. In Luke 2:46-47 , it is recorded, "After three days they found Him in the temple courts, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard Him were astounded at His understanding and His answers." This early visit highlights Jesus' wisdom and understanding of the Scriptures, even at a young age, and foreshadows His future teachings in the temple.

Teaching and Authority

Throughout His ministry, Jesus frequently taught in the temple courts, engaging with the people and religious leaders. In Matthew 21:23 , it is noted, "When Jesus returned to the temple courts and began to teach, the chief priests and elders of the people came to Him. 'By what authority are You doing these things?' they asked. 'And who gave You this authority?'" Jesus' teachings often challenged the established religious order, emphasizing the spirit of the law over mere ritualistic observance.

Parables and Teachings

The temple served as a backdrop for many of Jesus' parables and teachings. In Mark 12:35-37 , Jesus taught about the Messiah, saying, "While Jesus was teaching in the temple courts, He asked, 'How can the scribes say that the Christ is the son of David? David himself, speaking by the Holy Spirit, declared: "The Lord said to my Lord, 'Sit at My right hand, until I put Your enemies under Your feet.'" David himself calls Him 'Lord.' So how can He be David's son?'" Here, Jesus elucidates the divine nature of the Messiah, pointing to His own identity as both David's descendant and Lord.

Denunciation of Hypocrisy

Jesus also used the temple as a place to denounce hypocrisy and corruption among the religious leaders. In Matthew 23, He delivered a series of woes against the scribes and Pharisees, condemning their outward displays of piety that masked inner corruption. His teachings in the temple were direct and uncompromising, calling for genuine repentance and righteousness.

Prophecy of Destruction

In a poignant moment, Jesus prophesied the destruction of the temple, a prophecy fulfilled in AD 70. In Matthew 24:1-2 , it is written, "As Jesus left the temple and was walking away, His disciples came up to Him to point out its buildings. 'Do you see all these things?' He replied. 'Truly I tell you, not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down.'" This prophecy underscored the transient nature of earthly structures and pointed to the establishment of a spiritual temple through His death and resurrection.

Conclusion

Herod the Great's Temple was not only a physical structure of immense beauty and significance but also a pivotal location for Jesus' ministry. His teachings in the temple challenged the religious status quo, revealed His divine authority, and laid the groundwork for the new covenant. Through His actions and words, Jesus transformed the temple from a place of ritual to a stage for the revelation of God's redemptive plan for humanity.

Nave's Topical Index

Mark 11:27-33
And they come again to Jerusalem: and as he was walking in the temple, there come to him the chief priests, and the scribes, and the elders,
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Mark 12:35-44
And Jesus answered and said, while he taught in the temple, How say the scribes that Christ is the son of David?
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Mark 14:49
I was daily with you in the temple teaching, and you took me not: but the scriptures must be fulfilled.
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John 5:14-17
Afterward Jesus finds him in the temple, and said to him, Behold, you are made whole: sin no more, lest a worse thing come to you.
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John 7:14-28
Now about the middle of the feast Jesus went up into the temple, and taught.
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John 8:1
Jesus went to the mount of Olives.
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John 10:23-38
And Jesus walked in the temple in Solomon's porch.
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John 18:20
Jesus answered him, I spoke openly to the world; I ever taught in the synagogue, and in the temple, where the Jews always resort; and in secret have I said nothing.
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Library

Book 18 Footnotes
... repairs or other uses of the temple, Mark 12 ... thousand pounds sterling, was Agrippa
the Great's yearly income ... three quarters of his grandfather Herod's income; he ...
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