Basic HTML Version
Temple Cleansed Again
355
away the sin of the world!”
John 1:29
. If the priests believed John’s
testimony, how could they deny that Jesus was the Messiah?
If they declared their real belief, that John’s ministry was only
human, they would bring on themselves a storm of resentment, for
the people believed that John was a prophet. The onlookers knew
that the priests had professed to accept John, and they expected them
to acknowledge that he was sent from God. But after conferring
secretly together, the priests decided not to commit themselves.
Hypocritically claiming ignorance, they said, “We do not know.”
“Neither will I tell you,” said Christ, “by what authority I do these
things.”
Priests and Rulers Silenced
Baffled and disappointed, scribes, priests, and rulers all stood
scowling, not daring to press further questions on Christ. The people
stood by, amused to see these proud, self-righteous men defeated.
All these sayings and doings of Christ were important. After
His crucifixion and ascension they would have an ever-increasing
influence. Many who would finally become His disciples had first
been drawn by His words on that eventful day. The contrast between
Jesus and the high priest as they talked together was obvious. The
proud dignitary of the temple wore rich and costly garments. On
his head was a glittering tiara, his bearing was majestic, his hair and
beard silvery with age. Facing this importantlooking person stood
the Majesty of heaven, without adornment or display, His garments
travel-stained, His face pale, expressing a patient sadness. Yet
dignity and benevolence were written there. Many who witnessed
the words and deeds of Jesus in the temple enshrined Him in their
hearts as a prophet of God from that time on. But as the popular
feeling turned in His favor, the priests’ hatred toward Jesus increased.
It was not Christ’s intention to humiliate His opponents. He
had an important lesson to teach. The acknowledged ignorance
[275]
of His enemies regarding John’s baptism gave Him opportunity to
speak, presenting before them their real position and adding another
warning to the many He had already given.
“What do you think?” He said. “A man had two sons, and he
came to the first and said, ‘Son, go, work today in my vineyard.’ He