John / Question
Jesus gives this statement when asked for a sign, and the listeners think he is talking about the Jerusalem temple (John 2:19–20). John explains that Jesus “was speaking about the temple of his body” (John 2:21).
In John 2:18–22 the temple authorities demand proof for Jesus’ disruptive actions in the temple area. Jesus answers with a riddle-like claim: if “this temple” is destroyed, he will raise it in three days. They take him to mean the building, pointing out its long construction. This exchange follows Jesus driving out sellers and money-changers from the temple courts and calling the temple “my Father’s house,” which triggers opposition and scrutiny.
The scene is about authority. After Jesus disrupts temple commerce, the leaders ask for a public proof that legitimizes “these things” (verse 18). Jesus does not provide an immediate display; instead he answers with a short, riddle-like line about “this temple” being destroyed and then raised “in three days” (verse 19).
A common mistake is to turn the wording into a slogan. The better reading keeps the phrase tied to the passage, the speaker, and the problem the book is addressing.
Start with John 2:19-20, then read the surrounding section so the answer stays connected to the passage's flow.
19Jesus answered them, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up."
20The Jews therefore said, "Forty-six years was this temple in building, and will you raise it up in three days?"