Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary John 2:16

"and to them that sold the doves he said, Take these things hence; make not my Father`s house a house of merchandise." — John 2:16 (ASV)

Jesus’ action precipitated wild confusion. The animals would be bawling and running about aimlessly; the money changers would be scrambling for their coins in the dust and debris on the floor of the court; the officials would be arguing with Jesus about the rights of the case. Jesus’ expression “my Father’s house” reveals his feeling toward God. The merchandising of privilege was an insult to God and a desecration of the Father’s house.