ACC ~ John 2 v18

WHY DID THEY ASK FOR A SIGN?

CHRYSOSTOM: But was there a need for a sign before putting a stop to their evil practices and freeing the house of God from such dishonor? Was not the fact that he had such great zeal for the house of God the greatest sign of his virtue?… They did not however remember the prophecy but asked for a sign, at once irritated that their shameful traffic was cut off, while at the same time expecting to prevent him from going further. For this dilemma, they thought, would oblige him either to work miracles or give up his present course of action. But he refuses to give them the sign, as he did on a similar occasion, when he answers them that an evil and adulterous generation seeks after a sign, and no sign shall be given to it except the sign of Jonah the prophet [1] —only the answer is more open there than here. He however who even anticipated people’s wishes and gave signs when he was not asked, would not have rejected here a positive request, had he not seen that their minds were wicked and false and their intention was treacherous…. As it was, Jesus answered and said to them, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.” HOMILIES ON THE GOSPEL OF JOHN 23.2. [2]

[1] Mt 16:4.

[2] NPNF 1 14:81**.

Jn