Cleaning House

The sermon "Cleaning House" by Pastor Thomas-Steele delves into an exposé on Jesus’ multifaceted character, focusing on the significance of His cleansing of the temple as recorded in John 2:13-22. Pastor Thomas-Steele expounds on the intentionality behind Jesus' clearing of the temple, a reflection of both obedience to God and consideration for His people. He blasted the merchants and money changers, not so much for their unethical conduct, but for their desecration of the temple’s intended use: a place of worship and prayer. The sermon uses King Josiah's temple cleansing as an Old Testament parallel, thereby driving home the importance of a purified environment for genuine worship. Both Josiah and Jesus exemplify fierce opposition against hypocrisy and anything that deters from the true veneration of God. The sermon, while shining light on Christ’s zealous love for pure worship, implores the faithful to apply the same fervent respect for holiness in their own lives.