Summary

In April AD 27, Jesus clenches a coiled whip as he ascends the steps to the Temple, having come to Jerusalem for Passover as he does annually. Preparing to launch his ministry which has been a quiet one until now, Jesus unfurls the whip and climbs to the open-air plaza. Those who know Jesus and his peaceful mannerisms are astounded as he boldly approaches the money changers’ tables and flips them, cracking his whip to scatter the animals being sold as sacrifices. He orders the money changers and livestock salesmen from the Temple, demanding to know “how dare you turn my Father’s house into a market” (page 124)!

As pilgrims and Temple officials surround Jesus and ask him to prove his authority, Jesus vows to destroy the Temple and raise it up again in three days, cementing their belief that he is insane, but no...