You have made it a den of robbers!

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The temple existed for the worship of the LORD God. But the religious leaders turned it into a money-maker for themselves. This was an abuse of their authority.

 

 

INTRODUCTION

 

In ancient times, religious leaders misused their religion. They manipulated it into an economic engine, one that made money for themselves.

They were shepherds that fleeced their own sheep.

This was deeply troubling for many reasons. Here are a few of those reasons:

  • The LORD God did not architect the religion to be about money.
  • This was an abuse of religious authority.
  • It taught the people that spiritual benefits are only available for money.
  • It introduces class discrimination: only wealthy people can afford to be spiritual; therefore they are better than poor people.

A similar thing happens in our day. It is not as obvious. Yet it is widespread.

  • Church members who contribute a lot of money are considered “important”.
  • Church leaders promote the errant notion that holy people are rewarded with wealth.
  • People are told that donating vast amounts of money is an expression of great faith

 

BIBLE VERSES

 

Isaiah 56:7. I will bring these to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer. Their burnt offerings and their sacrifices will be accepted on my altar; for my house will be called a house of prayer for all peoples.”

Jeremiah 7:11. Has this house, which is called by my name, become a den of robbers in your eyes? Behold, I myself have seen it,” says the LORD.

1 Maccabees 7:37. You did choose this house to be called by your name, to be a house of prayer and supplication for your people:

Matthew 21:13. He said to them, “It is written, ‘My house shall be called a house of prayer,’ but you have made it a den of robbers!”

Mark 11:17. He taught, saying to them, “Isn’t it written, ‘My house will be called a house of prayer for all the nations?’ But you have made it a den of robbers!”

 

Unless otherwise noted, all Bible quotations on this page are from the World English Bible and the World Messianic Edition. These translations have no copyright restrictions. They are in the Public Domain.