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Matthew 21:13
Verse
Context
Jesus Cleanses the Temple
12Then Jesus entered the temple courts and drove out all who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the seats of those selling doves. 13And He declared to them, “It is written: ‘My house will be called a house of prayer.’ But you are making it ‘a den of robbers.’ ”
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- John Gill
- Tyndale
John Gill Bible Commentary
And said unto them, it is written,.... In Isa 56:7. My house shall be called the house of prayer. These are the, words of God, calling the temple his house, which was built according to the plan he gave; and was the place of his worship, and where he dwelt, and vouchsafed his presence to his people; and signifying, that in time to come, it should be an house of prayer; not for the Jews only, but for the Gentiles also: "for all people", as it is expressed by the prophet, and cited by Mark; and particularly this part of it, in which were the money changers and sellers of doves; for that was the court of the Gentiles, where they were admitted to pray, and perform other parts of worship. These words are rightly applied by Christ to the temple; nor can the Jews themselves deny it; for their own Targum paraphrases it thus, , "the house of my sanctuary shall be called an house of prayer"; or shall be one; for the meaning is not that it should go by such a name, but should be for such use, and not for buying and selling, and merchandise, to which use the Jews now put it: hence it follows, but ye have made it a den of thieves. These are the words of Christ, affirming what is complained of in Jer 7:11 and applying it to the present case, on account of the wicked merchandise, unlawful gain, avarice and extortion, of the priests and other officers of the temple, who had a considerable share in these things; and to whom the temple was, and by them used, as a den is to and by thieves and robbers, where they shelter themselves; for these persons robbed both God and man, and the temple was a sanctuary to them: here they screened themselves, and, under the appearance of religion and devotion, devoured widows' houses, plundered persons of their substance, and were full of extortion and excess.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
21:13 Jesus’ actions were justified, because God’s glory was being desecrated through financial exploitation.
Matthew 21:13
Jesus Cleanses the Temple
12Then Jesus entered the temple courts and drove out all who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the seats of those selling doves. 13And He declared to them, “It is written: ‘My house will be called a house of prayer.’ But you are making it ‘a den of robbers.’ ”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Dependable Priest
By Jim Cymbala8.2K55:37Jesus ChristPRO 28:13JER 33:3MAT 21:13ROM 3:23HEB 4:14HEB 4:161JN 1:9In this sermon, the preacher focuses on Hebrews 4:14 and the concept of Jesus as a dependable high priest. He emphasizes the importance of holding firmly to our faith and reminds the congregation that Jesus can sympathize with our weaknesses because he was tempted in every way, yet remained without sin. The preacher encourages the congregation to come to the throne of grace for freedom from guilt, cleansing through the blood, and encouragement and strength for their challenges. He invites those who feel the message is for them to stand up and come forward for prayer, symbolizing the throne of grace.
Interview of Leonard Ravenhill by David Mainse
By Leonard Ravenhill6.0K12:07RevivalInterviewPrayer in MinistryMAT 21:13LUK 18:1ACT 6:4ROM 12:12EPH 6:18PHP 4:6COL 4:21TH 5:171TI 2:1JAS 5:16Leonard Ravenhill, in an interview with David Mainse, emphasizes the critical need for prayer in ministry, arguing that a lack of prayer life among preachers leads to a spiritually stagnant church. He reflects on the early church's commitment to prayer and contrasts it with the modern church's focus on organization and performance. Ravenhill calls for a revival of genuine prayer and intercession, suggesting that the church must return to its roots of seeking God earnestly. He also highlights the importance of preachers dedicating time to prepare spiritually, not just intellectually, for their messages. Ultimately, Ravenhill urges ministers to prioritize their prayer life to foster a vibrant and impactful church.
The Overcoming Saint
By B.H. Clendennen4.6K1:10:51OvercomingMAT 6:33MAT 21:13JHN 2:13ACT 2:421CO 6:191PE 4:17REV 12:11In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the need for the church to rise up and be a representation of Christ in the world. He criticizes the idea of trying to produce something spiritual through worldly means, stating that it only leads to empty results. The preacher highlights the importance of overcoming Satan and emphasizes that the weapon of the overcoming saints is the word of their testimony. He also speaks about the need for the church to have a vision of God's purpose and to be filled with the Holy Spirit in order to produce unity and effectively meet the needs of the world.
Not Yet Time
By Bill McLeod1.8K55:29Waiting On God2CH 7:14ISA 45:23MAT 21:13ROM 14:1ROM 14:12In this sermon, the preacher discusses the consequences of judging and criticizing others, particularly fellow Christians. He uses the example of King David, who committed adultery with Bathsheba and had her husband killed. As a result, David faced severe consequences, including the death of four of his sons. The preacher emphasizes that it is not our place to judge others, as God has already received them. He also warns against listening to the devil's lies and allowing him to destroy our spiritual lives and testimonies. The sermon concludes with a reminder that what comes out of our mouths reflects what is in our hearts, and we should be cautious of the words we speak.
The Tabernacle of the Most High
By C.H. Spurgeon1.7K40:02LEV 11:44ZEP 3:17MAT 21:132CO 6:15EPH 2:22COL 1:131PE 2:5In this sermon, the speaker highlights the contrasting aspects of God's nature and how he reveals himself in different settings. The speaker uses examples such as a professor who is stern in the classroom but gentle with his child at home, and a king who appears majestic in public but is just like any other person at home. The speaker emphasizes that God also reveals different aspects of himself in different settings, particularly in his church. The speaker describes God's love and affection for his church, comparing it to a father with his children, and even mentions a passage in the Bible where God is represented as singing over his church.
He Was Despised and Rejected of Men and We Will Be Also
By Keith Daniel1.7K1:22:45RejectionPRO 11:30MAT 21:13JHN 3:162CO 5:142TH 1:82TI 3:16In this sermon, the preacher describes a disturbing incident where a person blasphemes and shows no fear of God. The preacher emphasizes the importance of remembering that God loves the world and gave His only Son for salvation. The sermon highlights the power of Christ's love that drives believers to share the gospel and win souls. The preacher urges Christians to have compassion and urgency for the lost, warning that a lack of concern for the unsaved may indicate a lack of true faith.
Ideals for Revival Prayer Meetings
By Bill McLeod1.6K41:03Revival PrayingPRO 1:23ISA 57:15MAT 21:13ROM 12:12In this sermon, the speaker shares his experiences of preaching the Word of God in South America. He recounts how the Bible verses he shared during his crusades seemed to have no effect on one man initially, but later, God awakened him and those verses became a powerful source of revival. The speaker emphasizes the power of the Word of God, comparing it to a time bomb that can unexpectedly impact hearts. He also discusses the importance of maintaining a spirit of prayer and shares a story about a denominational belief regarding crossing one's legs during a meeting. The sermon concludes with a contrast between the dedication and simplicity of a pastor in South America and the materialistic demands of a pastor in North America.
The Law of Separation
By Jim Cymbala1.6K34:59SeparationEZR 9:3NEH 9:2ISA 56:7JER 32:17MAT 21:132CO 6:17In this sermon, the pastor shares a personal experience of God speaking to him on a boat in Florida, promising to supply everything the church and his family would need if they led the people to pray and call on God. The pastor emphasizes the importance of maintaining a house of prayer for all nations and warns against compromising with sinful practices. He gives examples of people being trapped by various temptations and urges the congregation to say no to anything that leads them away from God's light. The pastor also references the dispersion of the Jewish people and the consequences they faced for turning away from God's directions.
Christ Is All - in Scripture
By Bill McLeod1.6K46:28Fulness Of ChristPSA 2:10PSA 40:7PSA 41:9MAT 1:21MAT 28:19MRK 14:62COL 3:11TIT 3:7PHM 1:1In this sermon, the speaker begins by referencing Mark 16 and Luke 1 from the Bible. He highlights how Jesus reproached his disciples for their lack of belief in his resurrection and then commanded them to preach the gospel to the world. The speaker also mentions that some versions of the Bible omit miracles and end with Jesus' death on the cross, portraying him as a good man and advocate of peace. However, the speaker emphasizes that the Bible is truly all about Jesus and explores the significance of his ministry and his role as the Son of God.
House Hunting
By Sandeep Poonen1.4K56:02MAT 21:13JHN 15:5COL 4:21TH 5:17HEB 10:24JAS 5:16This sermon emphasizes the importance of being a house of prayer, highlighting the contrast between being a den of thieves and a place of communion with God. It encourages individuals to creatively find ways to pray consistently for themselves and to help others do the same, fostering a community dedicated to prayer and spiritual growth. The speaker shares personal experiences and challenges listeners to take practical steps towards becoming houses of prayer and bearing fruit for others to consume.
House of Prayer - Part 4
By Jim Cymbala1.3K05:15MAT 21:13ACT 2:42ACT 4:311TI 2:1REV 5:8This sermon emphasizes the power and importance of prayer in the life of a believer, highlighting how prayer can transform individuals and communities. It delves into the deep significance of genuine prayer, using examples from the Apostle Paul's life and teachings to illustrate the impact of true prayer. The message underscores the biblical mandate for prayer in the church, emphasizing that prayer is a foundational aspect of Christian faith and the key to experiencing revival and spiritual growth.
American Church Buffet
By E.A. Johnston1.2K15:31American ChurchPSA 51:17HOS 1:2MAT 21:13LUK 14:23ACT 20:27ROM 3:231PE 4:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the need for the church to return to a pure message of the Gospel and to forsake worldly practices. He criticizes the inclusion of yoga, Zumba dancing, and worldly entertainment in churches, calling them idols and spiritual harlotry. The preacher warns that the American church has sold itself to the world and urges pastors to awaken the church from its spiritual slumber. He references Hosea chapter 4 to illustrate how the Jews departed from God and suffered judgment as a result. The preacher concludes by expressing his disgust with the state of many churches and calling for a return to true worship.
House of Prayer - Part 5
By Jim Cymbala1.1K05:15MAT 21:13ACT 2:42PHP 4:6HEB 4:16JAS 5:16This sermon emphasizes the vital importance of prayer in calling on God for intervention in various life situations. It highlights the need for churches to prioritize prayer as God's house is meant to be a house of prayer. The speaker addresses the prevalence of societal issues and challenges, stressing that prayer is the key to experiencing God's power and grace. The message underscores the significance of coming boldly to the throne of grace to receive God's mercy and help in times of need.
Extraordinary Faith
By Jim Cymbala1.1K20:56FaithGEN 18:14ISA 53:5ISA 56:7MAT 15:21MAT 21:13MRK 2:1JHN 4:46JAS 5:14In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of vicarious praying and extraordinary faith. He uses the story of four men who bring a paralyzed man to Jesus by digging a hole in the roof to illustrate this idea. The speaker emphasizes the importance of identifying with others and feeling their struggles in order to pray effectively. He also highlights the role of faith in salvation, noting that while someone else's faith can lead others to Jesus, personal faith is necessary for salvation. The sermon concludes with the example of a royal official who asks Jesus to heal his dying son and receives a miraculous answer to his prayer.
Cashing God's Check
By Jim Cymbala94529:48ProvisionNUM 23:19PSA 37:4MAT 7:7MAT 21:13JHN 3:16PHP 4:191TH 5:17In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of sloganeering in Christianity and emphasizes the importance of living in alignment with the promises of God. He highlights the need for authenticity and real talk in our faith. The speaker then references Philippians and focuses on the concept of contentment in all circumstances. He encourages the audience to seek wisdom and help from God in every aspect of their lives, including parenting.
Studies in Isaiah - Part 12
By Harry Ironside73740:14ExpositoryGEN 12:3ISA 56:1MAT 21:13ROM 8:4In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the importance of living in the light of death and seeking righteousness. They emphasize that in the future, regardless of physical condition or nationality, anyone who sincerely turns to God and does His will can have a place in His kingdom. The speaker then discusses chapters 56, 57, 58, and 59 of the Book of Isaiah, which address controversy with Israel regarding their Messiah. These chapters provide practical teachings and warnings, reminding listeners to not get carried away with future prophecies but to live a godly life.
God's Promise of Help
By Jim Cymbala72833:09HelpMAT 21:13EPH 2:8HEB 4:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of approaching God's throne of grace with confidence. He highlights the misconception that we need to be "good enough" to come into God's presence, stating that we will never be good enough on our own. Instead, he emphasizes that Jesus has made the way for us to come into God's presence and receive mercy and grace. The speaker encourages listeners to not rush away from God's presence but to stay and seek His help in times of need. He references Hebrews 4:16 as a key verse that supports this message.
Sin a Thief of God's Glory
By Richard Owen Roberts6011:01:171SA 15:221SA 16:72CH 7:14PSA 51:10MIC 6:8MAT 21:13MRK 12:30JAS 4:8This sermon emphasizes the importance of seeking God's work in our hearts, asking for a clean heart and a right spirit. It delves into the significance of loving God above all else and the need to focus on personal love for God. The sermon also explores the consequences of sin as a hindrance to God's glory and the importance of seeking God's will and worshiping Him in humility.
A Ministry Like Harry S. Truman: Intercession for Israel
By Mike Bickle251:32:40IntercessionPrayer for IsraelDEU 32:7ISA 62:6EZK 22:30HAB 3:4ZEC 12:3MAT 21:13JHN 14:12ROM 12:121TI 1:18REV 22:20Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of intercession for Israel, drawing parallels between the ministry of Harry S. Truman and the current mission of mobilizing prayer for Israel. He recounts the prophetic history of IHOP and the recent acquisition of 120 acres as a spiritual base, which he believes is a divine sign for the intercessory movement. Bickle highlights the importance of remembering God's past faithfulness to strengthen resolve and focus on the mission ahead. He calls for a commitment to 24/7 prayer, aligning with biblical prophecies regarding Israel's restoration and the end times. The sermon serves as a reminder of the church's role in standing in the gap for Israel and the urgency of prayer in this generation.
The Call to Be a Full-Time Intercessory Missionary
By Mike Bickle2253:52Intercessory PrayerCalling and Vocation1CH 9:331CH 23:30ISA 62:6MAT 21:13LUK 2:37ACT 6:4ROM 12:121TH 5:16JAS 5:16REV 5:8Mike Bickle emphasizes the growing call for full-time intercessory missionaries within the body of Christ, highlighting the biblical foundation and historical precedent for this vocation. He notes the significant increase in 24-hour prayer ministries globally, from 25 to over 20,000 in just 30 years, indicating a divine movement led by the Holy Spirit. Bickle encourages believers to support this calling, even if they are not personally called to it, and stresses the importance of prayer as a central activity in the church. He references biblical examples, particularly from the Old Testament, to illustrate the role of intercessors and their vital function in God's plan. Ultimately, he calls for a recognition of individual callings while affirming the necessity of intercessory prayer in the end times.
The Church's Eternal Identity as a House of Prayer
By Mike Bickle2146:05The Power of PrayerIdentity in Christ2CH 7:14PSA 132:2ISA 56:7JOL 2:12MAT 21:13ACT 1:14ROM 8:26EPH 6:181PE 2:9REV 5:8Mike Bickle emphasizes the church's eternal identity as a house of prayer, asserting that prayer is central to our existence as redeemed beings. He explains that the enemy actively seeks to hinder our prayer lives, which are essential for interacting with God and releasing His power into the world. Bickle highlights that both individually and collectively, the body of Christ is called to grow in prayer, as it is a reflection of our true identity and purpose. He draws on biblical examples, including the life of David and the early church, to illustrate the significance of prayer in God's eternal plan. Ultimately, Bickle calls for a culture of prayer within the church, urging believers to engage deeply with God through prayer as a vital aspect of their faith.
The House of Prayer: Our Eternal Identity
By Mike Bickle1447:38Intimacy in PrayerEternal IdentityEXO 19:6PSA 2:8PSA 72:15ISA 42:10ISA 56:7MAT 21:131TI 2:1HEB 7:25JAS 4:2REV 22:17Mike Bickle emphasizes that the house of prayer is not merely a ministry focus but the eternal identity of God's people. He explains that being a house of prayer involves a deep interaction with God's heart, where our prayers move His heart and vice versa. Bickle highlights the importance of intimacy-based intercession, asserting that this relationship is vital for the release of God's resources in our lives and the world. He warns against the distractions that hinder our prayer life and calls for a recognition of our identity as a house of prayer, which will continue into eternity. Ultimately, he encourages believers to engage actively in prayer as a reflection of their relationship with God.
Mark 11
By John Nelson Darby0Faith and FruitfulnessJesus as KingPSA 8:2PSA 118:26DAN 7:14MAT 21:5MAT 21:13MRK 11:22LUK 13:8JHN 1:12JHN 12:23ROM 5:8John Nelson Darby expounds on Mark 11, emphasizing Jesus' dual identity as the Son of David and the Son of Man, highlighting His rightful claim to kingship and authority over all. He illustrates how Jesus' entry into Jerusalem fulfilled prophecy and demonstrated His acceptance as the Messiah, despite the impending rejection by the people. The sermon also discusses the significance of faith in God, the importance of bearing fruit in our lives, and the judgment on Israel for its unfruitfulness. Darby concludes by reflecting on the authority of Jesus in the temple and the failure of the religious leaders to recognize His divine mission. Ultimately, he underscores the grace of God that remains available to all who believe, despite human failure.
On Prayer and Preaching
By Art Katz0PrayerUnity in the ChurchMAT 21:13ACT 2:14ROM 12:11CO 12:12EPH 4:3PHP 1:27COL 3:14HEB 10:24JAS 5:161PE 4:10Art Katz emphasizes the critical role of prayer and unity among believers in enhancing the effectiveness of preaching. He argues that the quality of prayer and the spiritual connectedness of the congregation directly influence the power of the spoken word. Katz highlights that true participation in the ministry requires a collective bond, where the congregation shares in the burden of the message, much like Peter's sermon at Pentecost, which was powerful due to the unity of the apostles. He warns against the observer mentality prevalent in modern society, urging believers to engage actively in the spiritual life of the church. Ultimately, Katz calls for a sacrificial approach to prayer, where intercession becomes a priority, releasing divine power during the ministry of the word.
Compared View of the First Three Gospels, Etc.
By John Nelson Darby0The GospelsChrist's MinistryMAT 1:1MAT 4:17MAT 5:1MAT 9:35MAT 11:28MAT 28:19MRK 1:14LUK 3:23LUK 4:18John Nelson Darby discusses the distinct characteristics and purposes of the first three Gospels, emphasizing that Mark presents a chronological account of Christ's service, while Matthew focuses on the presentation of Jesus as the Messiah and the implications of His rejection. He notes that Luke, while generally following Mark's order, includes moral teachings that are unique to his Gospel. Darby highlights the importance of understanding the genealogies and the context of Christ's ministry, particularly in relation to Israel's expectations and the establishment of the church. He concludes that the Gospels collectively reveal the nature of Christ's mission and the unfolding of God's plan for humanity.
- John Gill
- Tyndale
John Gill Bible Commentary
And said unto them, it is written,.... In Isa 56:7. My house shall be called the house of prayer. These are the, words of God, calling the temple his house, which was built according to the plan he gave; and was the place of his worship, and where he dwelt, and vouchsafed his presence to his people; and signifying, that in time to come, it should be an house of prayer; not for the Jews only, but for the Gentiles also: "for all people", as it is expressed by the prophet, and cited by Mark; and particularly this part of it, in which were the money changers and sellers of doves; for that was the court of the Gentiles, where they were admitted to pray, and perform other parts of worship. These words are rightly applied by Christ to the temple; nor can the Jews themselves deny it; for their own Targum paraphrases it thus, , "the house of my sanctuary shall be called an house of prayer"; or shall be one; for the meaning is not that it should go by such a name, but should be for such use, and not for buying and selling, and merchandise, to which use the Jews now put it: hence it follows, but ye have made it a den of thieves. These are the words of Christ, affirming what is complained of in Jer 7:11 and applying it to the present case, on account of the wicked merchandise, unlawful gain, avarice and extortion, of the priests and other officers of the temple, who had a considerable share in these things; and to whom the temple was, and by them used, as a den is to and by thieves and robbers, where they shelter themselves; for these persons robbed both God and man, and the temple was a sanctuary to them: here they screened themselves, and, under the appearance of religion and devotion, devoured widows' houses, plundered persons of their substance, and were full of extortion and excess.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
21:13 Jesus’ actions were justified, because God’s glory was being desecrated through financial exploitation.