2025 Study of Matthew’s Gospel

MY HOUSE WILL BE CALLED A HOUSE OF PRAYER

Matthew 21:12-16

Key Verses 21:13

1. What was happening just before this event (21:1-11)? What did the temple symbolize to the Jewish people at that time? Why do you think Jesus chose to cleanse the temple as one of His first actions after entering Jerusalem?
2. What kind of trading was taking place in the temple courts, and why do you think this practice had started (12a, John 2:14)? Why was Jesus so angry, and how did He express His anger (12b, 13b)? What does this reveal about God’s heart toward the corruption of true worship?
3. When Jesus said, “My house will be called a house of prayer,” what do you think He meant (13a)? Mark adds the phrase “for all nations” — what does this tell us about God’s purpose for the temple and for His people (Mark 11:17)? How can we keep our church community focused on prayer, worship, and mission?
4. What is the spiritual meaning of healing taking place right after Jesus cleansed the temple (14)? Why did the children begin to praise Jesus, saying, “Hosanna to the Son of David” (15)? Why were the religious leaders upset with Jesus, and why did Jesus answer them with Psalm 8:2 (16)?