John 2:18

On account of this, the Jews demanded, "What sign can You show us to prove Your authority to do these things?"

Study Bible

On account of this
This phrase refers to the preceding actions of Jesus in the temple, where He drove out the money changers and overturned their tables. The phrase sets the stage for the confrontation that follows. In the Greek, "διὰ τοῦτο" (dia touto) indicates a causal relationship, emphasizing that the actions of Jesus directly prompted the questioning by the Jews. This highlights the boldness of Jesus' actions and the immediate impact they had on the religious leaders.

the Jews
In the Gospel of John, "the Jews" often refers to the Jewish leaders or authorities rather than the Jewish people as a whole. Historically, this group included the Pharisees, Sadducees, and members of the Sanhedrin. Their role was to maintain religious order and authority, which Jesus' actions directly challenged. Understanding this context is crucial, as it sets up the tension between Jesus and the established religious order.

demanded
The Greek word used here is "ἀπεκρίθησαν" (apekrithēsan), which can be translated as "answered" or "responded." However, in this context, it carries a sense of demanding or questioning with authority. The religious leaders felt their authority was being undermined, prompting a forceful response. This reflects their concern over maintaining control and the perceived threat Jesus posed to their power.

What sign can You show us
The request for a sign is a demand for a miraculous proof of authority. In Jewish tradition, prophets and messengers of God often performed signs to validate their divine mission. The Greek word "σημεῖον" (sēmeion) means a sign or miracle that points to a deeper truth. This request reveals the leaders' skepticism and their need for tangible evidence to accept Jesus' authority.

to prove Your authority
Authority, or "ἐξουσία" (exousia) in Greek, is a central theme in this passage. The religious leaders are questioning Jesus' right to act in the temple as He did. In Jewish culture, authority was derived from lineage, position, or divine appointment. Jesus' authority, however, comes from His identity as the Son of God, a concept that the leaders struggled to understand and accept.

to do these things
"These things" refers to Jesus' actions in the temple—cleansing it of commercial activities. This act was not just a protest against corruption but a profound statement about the sanctity of worship and the true purpose of the temple. Historically, the temple was the center of Jewish religious life, and any disruption was seen as a significant challenge to the status quo. Jesus' actions symbolized a new order and a call to return to genuine worship, foreshadowing His ultimate sacrifice and the establishment of a new covenant.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Jews
This term often refers to the religious leaders or authorities in the context of the Gospels. Here, they are questioning Jesus' authority after He cleanses the temple.

2. Jesus
The central figure of the New Testament, who has just cleansed the temple, driving out the money changers and those selling animals for sacrifice.

3. The Temple in Jerusalem
The sacred place where Jews came to worship and offer sacrifices. Jesus' actions in the temple were seen as a challenge to the established religious practices.

4. Cleansing of the Temple
An event where Jesus drove out merchants and money changers from the temple, symbolizing a call to purity and true worship.

5. Sign
In this context, a miraculous act that would validate Jesus' authority and divine mission.

Teaching Points

Authority of Jesus
Jesus' authority is inherent and divine, not dependent on human validation. His actions in the temple demonstrate His zeal for true worship and His role as the Messiah.

Demand for Signs
The demand for signs reflects a lack of faith and understanding. True faith does not require constant miraculous proof but trusts in the character and promises of God.

Purity in Worship
Jesus' cleansing of the temple calls believers to examine their own worship practices. Are we focused on external rituals, or are we seeking a genuine relationship with God?

Understanding Jesus' Mission
Jesus' mission was not to conform to human expectations but to fulfill God's redemptive plan. Believers are called to align their expectations with God's purposes.

Resurrection as the Ultimate Sign
Jesus' resurrection is the ultimate sign of His authority and divinity. It is the cornerstone of Christian faith and the assurance of eternal life.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jesus' response to the demand for a sign challenge our understanding of faith and evidence?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship remains pure and focused on God, rather than on rituals or traditions?

3. How does the cleansing of the temple relate to the concept of our bodies being temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)?

4. What are some modern-day "signs" that people might demand from God, and how should we respond to such demands?

5. How does the resurrection of Jesus serve as the ultimate sign of His authority and how does it impact our daily lives as believers?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 12:38-40
The Pharisees and teachers of the law also ask Jesus for a sign, and He refers to the sign of Jonah, pointing to His resurrection.

1 Corinthians 1:22-24
Paul discusses how Jews demand signs and Greeks seek wisdom, but Christ crucified is the power and wisdom of God.

John 10:24-25
The Jews again ask Jesus to tell them plainly if He is the Christ, and He refers to His works as testimony to His identity.