In the Synoptics we can see the tension and the conflict before, during, and after this scene. We’ve been told that the tension is coming (like in last week’s Gospel when Jesus first pronounces his death and resurrection) and it can be argued that this temple scene is the catalyst that forces the hand of the religious leaders to have him arrested. But today’s version comes from John. And if we look closely, there’s not actually any external conflict around it (outside of the most violent Jesus we see in any of the gospels, fashioning a whip of cords). We are conditioned (because of the Synoptics) to read this version as being full of “passion” conflict and that immediately Jesus is in trouble and moves him toward the cross. But that’s not how the Jewish authorities respond. Instead, they respond with curiosity.