Consistent

Often our reactions to people can be divided into two groups, cynical or dependent. The former produces a kind of sadness and a spirit of criticism. The ladder produces unhealthy decision processes.

John tells us because Jesus knew what was in all men he did not commit himself to men (John 2:24-25). He was about his Father’s business. Men’s response to him did not control his actions. Though he was a servant to men, he was not subservient to men. He knew who he was, so that whether men applauded him or rejected him, he remained steady on course.

So we need to remain consistent in our walk with God regardless of whether we are applauded or rejected.

Committed to What?

There is a curious statement made by John. “Now when He was in Jerusalem at the Passover, durin the feast, many believed in his name when they saw the sins which he did. But Jesus did not commit himself to them, because he knew all men, and had no need that anyone should testify of man, for he knew what was in man” (John 2;23-25).

Why would Jesus not commit himself to men who believed in him? Isn’t God committed to loving us as we believe in him? Were these men different than us? Why commit himself to taking care of us and not them (Mt 28:20)?

The men at the feast believed Jesus could perform miracles, but they were not committed to pleasing God. They were committed to miracles.

Many Signs

For the first time in the book of John we see the Jews asking for a sign to prove Jesus’ authority. Jesus responded, “Destroy this temple and in three days I will raise it up” (John 2:13-19). We know he was speaking of his body because John tells us, but the Pharisees didn’t. They thought he was talking about the physical temple built by Solomon. Jesus did not clear up their misunderstanding. In fact, he seemed to purposely be obscure.

The Jews were not seeking the truth. We know they wouldn’t have believed if he had “given them a sign” because John tells us Jesus did many signs while he was still at the temple (John 2:23). Truth is hidden from those who do not seek it, but revealed to those who do seek it (Pr 2:2-4).

Heart of Worship

The second issue with the market in the temple was one about worship. The purpose of the animal sacrifices was to offer prayers and to worship God, but it had become a place to make a profit.

Matt Redman wrote a worship song called The Heart of Worship where he talks about Jesus being the focal point of worship. The lyrics were inspired from a time when his pastor removed all sound systems and musical instruments from worship. The pastor wanted his congregation to know worship comes from the heart.

Let’s take a clue from these two stories to search our own hearts to see where our worship is coming from.