Jesus’ Zeal: A Passion for God’s Purpose

Christ burned with such zeal for the glory of his Father that he could not endure to see it profaned without expressing his indignation…He who was so gentle and meek toward men was like a roaring lion when the honor of God was at stake,” wrote John Calvin in his commentary of the Gospel of John

This reference speaks to one of the most vivid illustrations of Jesus’ zeal when He cleansed the Temple (Jn. 2:13-17).

Warren Wiersbe provides the historical background to the Jewish business practices that triggered Jesus’ response and offers an important insight.

“The priests had established a lucrative business of exchanging foreign money for Jewish currency, and also selling the animals needed for the sacrifices. No doubt, this “religious market” began as a convenience for the Jews who came long distances to worship in the temple; but in due time the “convenience” became a business, not a ministry. The tragedy is that this business was carried on in the court of the Gentiles in the temple, the place where the Jews should have been meeting the Gentiles and telling them about the one true God. Any Gentile searching for truth would not likely find it among the religious merchants in the temple.”

The Bible says  that when Jesus came into the temple and saw their disregard for spiritual matters and their desecration of the temple, He made a whip, drove them out, overturning the money changers tables and releasing the animals. As they fled, Jesus shouted, “Take these things away! Do not make My Father’s house a house of merchandise!” (John 2:13-16).

Observing this dramatic scene apparently made quite an impact on the apostles. John writes, “Then His disciples remembered that it was written, “Zeal for Your house has eaten Me up” (Jn. 2:20). This is a reference to Psalm 69, a Messianic psalm.

Jesus’ zeal, however, was not only displayed in this courageous act, but throughout His life and ministry. Jesus’ imbibed a burning passion, an unwavering commitment, and deep dedication to fulfill the Father’s purpose. His zeal was not that of a reckless zealot or an emotional fanatic, but one that was focused, steady, and steadfast.

Jesus’ zeal began at an early age when He became separated from Joseph and Mary at the Passover Feast. When they found Him, He was in the Temple listening to and talking to the teachers of the Law. When they expressed their perplexed feelings, 12 year old Jesus answered, “Did you not know I must be about My Father’s business?” (Lk. 2:41-49).

Jesus’ fervor was further manifested beginning at His baptism, His selection of His disciples, and His profound teaching in the famous Sermon on the Mount. Throughout His ministry we see His passion demonstrated in compassion for the hurting, healing the sick, comforting the broken hearted, and His non-stop ministry that often left Him physically exhausted at the end of the day.

A careful study of Jesus’ life reveals a zeal that underlies the daily grind of mentoring the disciples, engaging with seekers, and correcting, even rebuking, the misguided religious leaders. His ministry was deeply rooted in his love for the Father and the deep desire to do His will, as is often stated in John’s Gospel account. Thus, He could come to the end of His life and confidently say to the Father, “I have glorified You on the earth. I have finished the work which You have given Me to do” Jn. 17:4).

The Bible challenges us to follow in His steps (1 Pet. 2:21), to be conformed to His image (Rom. 8:29), and to develop His attitude (Phil. 2:5). Often this is applied to outward actions, religious rites, and shunning evil temptations. But, how about becoming like Christ in our zeal? Our fervor? Our passion? Our burning desire for spiritual things?

Paul challenges us in Romans 12:11 to “Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.”

In a world characterized by indifference, selfishness and hedonism, Believers are called upon to be different. To think differently. To act differently. To be like Christ. And in a religious world, like that of Jesus’ day, which has too often forgotten its spiritual mission, become consumed with material pursuits, and lost sight of the purpose of the Father’s House, we need Christians to passionately fight for what is right, oppose what is wrong, and courageously challenge the status quo.

Indeed A. W. Tozer was right when he wrote, “Christ’s passion was to please His Father. That burning zeal to do the Father’s will should consume every follower of the Lamb.”

–Ken Weliever, The Preacherman