Following his entrance into Jerusalem (Matthew 21:1–11), Jesus spent time in the temple and its precincts, debating with leaders and teaching the people (see Matthew 21:12–23:39).1 The temple and its courts were a natural gathering place for Jews, especially in the build-up to Passover celebrations. Jesus leaves the temple, having demonstrated his authority and the unbelief of the religious leaders (Matthew 23:37).2 His departure has overtones of divine abandonment (see 1 Samuel 4:21–22; Jeremiah 12:7; Ezekiel 8:12; Ezekiel 9:9; Ezekiel 11:23).3
1 Jesus left the temple and was going away, when his disciples came to point out to him the buildings of the temple.