What does John 2:17 mean?

Jesus demonstrated humility, gentleness, friendship, and love. Yet, He was not the soft-skinned, frail, passive sage seen so often in works of art. Reading what He endured during His last hours before crucifixion vouches for His physical toughness (Matthew 26:67; 27:27–31). The gospels also depict Jesus as passionate, direct, quick-minded, and brave. A fragile pushover could never have single-handedly cleared a courtyard full of merchants. Nor would a weakling have stood His ground against the commotion that came after. The disciples are reminded of Psalm 69:9, which refers to the Messiah. "Zeal" is defined as "passion, energy, and devotion." Jesus' passion for the purity of the temple is clear.

At the same time, His anger is controlled. This account is careful to note that Jesus didn't pick up a whip or pull one out of his belt. Rather, He made the whip in response to what He saw in the temple (John 2:15). That was a purposeful, intentional act. There is no biblical reason to think Jesus harmed anyone, or any animal, or damaged any property. And yet, He single-handedly evicted all the vendors and moneylenders, without being arrested or mobbed. This says a lot about the powerful presence Christ must have had. Even so, this kind of incident generated hatred from the local religious leaders, who would eventually "consume" and kill Jesus (Matthew 12:14).