I am currently in an inter-generational women’s Bible study reading through the book of John. It has been a blessing to be around such a diverse group of godly women. At one meeting we were discussing the verse, “Zeal for your house has eaten me up” (2:17). Although we talked about several interpretations of this verse, I’d like to think about one in particular.
Often times in scripture people are referred to as temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 3:16). Taken this way, Jesus is saying that he is zealous for us, his temple or his house. Moreover, he is consumed with zeal for humanity. Jesus has “unflagging enthusiasm” for us! Jesus, the Son of Man (Dan 7:13-14), the Word of God (Rev 19:13), and the Lamb of God (John 1:29), not only cares about me, but passionately pursues me. How radical is that?
This verse was some of the inspiration behind the song “Jealous Kind” by Jars of Clay. The song definitely more eloquently and beautifully describes this aspect of Christ’s love for us.
