Luke 19:46
“It is written, My house is the house of prayer: but ye have made it a den of thieves.”
Context:Luke 19:46 is part of a passage that describes an incident that took place in the temple in Jerusalem. Jesus entered the temple and found people engaged in buying and selling, turning the house of prayer into a marketplace. In response, Jesus drove out those who were doing business in the temple, declaring that it should be a house of prayer.
Jesus’ Reference to Scripture:In this verse, Jesus declares, “It is written, My house is the house of prayer.” This statement indicates that Jesus was referencing Old Testament Scriptures to support His actions. He likely referred to Isaiah 56:7, which says, “Even them will I bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer: their burnt offerings and their sacrifices shall be accepted upon mine altar; for mine house shall be called a house of prayer for all people.”
The Purpose of the Temple:The temple in Jerusalem was meant to be a holy place, set apart for worship and prayer. It was where the Israelites would offer sacrifices and seek the presence of God. The temple symbolized the dwelling place of God among His people and served as a central location for spiritual activities.
The Corruption in the Temple:However, by Jesus’ time, the temple had become corrupted. Money changers and merchants had set up their businesses within the temple courts, turning it into a marketplace. This commercialization and exploitation of the temple’s sacred space were contrary to its intended purpose.
Den of Thieves:Jesus accuses those who had made the temple a marketplace of turning it into a “den of thieves.” This phrase emphasizes the dishonest practices taking place within the temple. It suggests that the people were using the sacred space for their own personal gain rather than for its intended purpose of prayer and worship.
Spiritual Application:Luke 19:46 serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining the sanctity of places dedicated to God. It challenges us to examine our own hearts and actions, ensuring that our motives align with God’s purposes. It also encourages us to approach our places of worship with reverence, humility, and sincerity, treating them as houses of prayer.
