Jesus apparently cleansed the temple twice. John places it early in his ministry (specifically, 46 years after Herod began restoring the temple) and the synoptics (Matthew, Mark, and Luke) after the triumphal entry. In your view, is the second cleansing to say “I told you once, and you guys haven’t repented”? Or perhaps something to ensure his arrest and death? Or both? — J.T.
I lean towards the view that Jesus cleansed the Temple only once, and that John has moved the story to the beginning of his gospel for theological reasons. Of course there’s no way to know for sure. If this makes you uncomfortable, please check out Licona’s important book Jesus Contradicted: Why the Gospels Tell the Same Story Differently.
And yes, I do believe Jesus is telegraphing Caiaphas. He’s challenging the corrupt priesthood. He's sending a message – which he knew would ultimately lead to his death.
