What we can say is (i) that Jesus unmistakably criticized the existing operation of the Temple as a corrupt system, bound for destruction in connection with the arrival of the Kingdom of God which he heralded and inaugurated in his ministry and person. Given the importance of this theme in his life and destiny, moreover, it is clear that this criticism of corrupt power and privilege was not merely cosmetic but fundamental to his concern. Power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely—in religion