John 2:20

"Jesus answered them, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.”"

Key Reflection

In John 2:20, Jesus makes a profound statement that challenges his listeners' understanding of both the physical temple and himself. By declaring, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up," Jesus is hinting at the significance of his upcoming crucifixion and resurrection. This act would serve as a pivotal moment that surpasses any destruction of the earthly sanctuary, symbolizing not just a rebuilding but a transformative renewal through his divine work on the cross.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 20. Then said the Jews, &c. The Jews, either from the ambiguity of his language, or more probably from a design to cavil, understood him as speaking of the temple at Jerusalem. What he said here is all the evidence that they could adduce on his trial (Mt 26:61; Mr 14:58), and they reproached him with it when on the cross, Mt 27:40. The Jews frequently perverted our Saviour's meaning. The language which he used was often that of parables or metaphor; and as they sought to misunderstand him and pervert his language, so he often left them to their own delusions, as he himself says, "that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand," Mt 13:13.

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