Then Jesus entered the temple area and proceeded to drive out those who were selling things, saying to them, "It is written, 'My house shall be a house of prayer, but you have made it a den of thieves.'" And every day he was teaching in the temple area. The chief priests, the scribes, and the leaders of the people, meanwhile, were seeking to put him to death, but they could find no way to accomplish their purpose because all the people were hanging on his words (Lk 19:45-48)
Temple was the focal point for the people of Israel. It was the national identity and ideology. It was the sign and symbol of God’s unshakable promise that he would be with them and keep the safe. This promise of God had to be met with faith and obedience of the people. In short it was a symbol of covenant relationship. When people reject this presence and promise the they would face judgement and punishment.
But Jesus witnesses a commercialized temple. His action is a prophetic warning. Because the temple has become a hide-out for brigands, and brigands are running the show. Jesus is not so much angry with the traders, though they do make extra money in their business, rather Jesus is angry with the priests and the structure that make the commercialization of the temple possible. And his is one of the main reason on which the priest accuse Jesus for death.
The ruling group, both clerical and lay, see an immediate reason in his action in e temple, to put Jesus to death. Jesus’ reaction is in coincidence with his own preaching. This is how God’s plan of salvation is achieved. Jesus entered temple as true God finally returned to Zion.
