Theft in the Name of God

If you walked into a nursing home with a plate of cookies, and were killed for it, you still would not generate the same bewilderment as was generated by the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Why would they want to murder HIM? The Jews were irate because Jesus was claiming to be God. Even as Jesus declared judgement on rebels, He wept. They were not ignorant, they had rejected His clear claims. They were driven by greed. Even the temple, which was an absolute privilege to have, was used for extorting money from people. The temple had become more like a mall than a place of worship. They extorted money both through exchange and also through the selling of inferior sacrifices. Using religion to rake in money enrages God. Greed is a dreadful thing! Such a thief is the worst kind of thief. Jesus will return and this will all be dealt with. Do not allow your greed to make you an enemy of Christ!