Let God Speak! Mark's Gospel

  Day 35: Mark 11:12-19
Jesus Clears the Temple

The fig tree is a picture of the Jewish religious leadership. This tree promised so much from a distance to Jesus who needed some food but there was no fruit when he got close up. That is why Jesus brought judgment on the tree and it is the same reason why his last four days in Jerusalem would bring judgement on the leaders of Israel who had outward show but could not offer spiritual food and guidance to the people. So the account of the fig tree and clearing the temple are directly connected and relevant to each other.

The traders were Jewish people taking advantage of Jewish pilgrims who needed to buy animals for sacrifices and the market was set up in the outer court where the Gentiles were also able to visit. Thousands of pilgrims were gathering for the Passover and the seven day feast of unleavened bread which was about to begin in a few days time.

Read this bible account through slowly and several times. 

Ask God to speak to you. Write down what you believe he has said.