New Testament
John 2:20
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The Jews then said, "This temple took forty-six years to build, and you will raise it up in three days?"
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Then said the Jews, Forty and six years was this temple in building, and wilt thou rear it up in three days?
What John 2:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the Jews are expressing disbelief at Jesus' claim about the temple. They point out that it took 46 years to construct the temple, highlighting its significance and the effort involved. Jesus' statement about raising it in three days seems absurd to them, as they interpret it literally. However, Jesus is actually referring to His body as the true temple, indicating that His resurrection will occur in three days after His crucifixion. This moment foreshadows the deeper spiritual truth that Jesus embodies the presence of God, surpassing the physical temple. The Jews' misunderstanding reflects a common theme in the Gospels where Jesus' true identity and mission are often misinterpreted by those around Him. This verse sets the stage for the revelation of Jesus as the ultimate fulfillment of the temple's purpose, emphasizing the transition from the old covenant to the new covenant in Christ.
How to apply John 2:20 to your life
This verse encourages us to seek a deeper understanding of Jesus' teachings. Just as the Jews misunderstood His message, we too can misinterpret spiritual truths. We should strive to look beyond the surface and seek the deeper meanings in our faith, allowing Jesus to transform our understanding.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Clearing the Temple at Passover (John 2:13–22)
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Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
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David's capital, the city of the temple, and the place where Jesus died and rose again.
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At a Glance — the Book of John
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does John 2:20 mean?
In John 2:20, the Jews express disbelief at Jesus' claim about raising the temple in three days, highlighting that it took 46 years to build. Jesus is actually referring to His body as the true temple, indicating His resurrection after three days.
What is the significance of the temple in John 2:20?
The temple in John 2:20 represents the physical place of worship and God's presence. Jesus' reference to raising it in three days signifies a shift from the physical temple to Himself as the new temple, embodying God's presence.
What does Jesus mean by 'raise it up in three days'?
When Jesus says He will 'raise it up in three days,' He is speaking about His resurrection after His crucifixion. This statement points to the deeper truth of His identity as the true temple.
Why did the Jews misunderstand Jesus in John 2:20?
The Jews misunderstood Jesus because they interpreted His words literally, focusing on the physical temple rather than grasping the spiritual significance of His message about His body as the true temple.
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