What does John 2:21 mean?

Jesus often makes comments about spiritual issues which are misinterpreted in physical ways. Earlier, Jesus was challenged to produce a miracle (John 2:18–19). He had disrupted businesses which overtook the temple grounds (John 2:14–16). Local religious leaders demanded miraculous proof that Christ had the right to do this. Jesus responded by saying that He could rebuild "this temple" in only three days.

Solomon had spent years building the first temple. Nehemiah devoted years to rebuilding it. Herod spent decades remodeling the current temple. So, claiming that one could rebuild "this temple" in just days sounded absurd. The people thought Jesus meant the brick-and-mortar sanctuary. Instead, Jesus was predicting His upcoming death and resurrection. When Jesus is arrested, this statement will be part of the evidence against Him (Matthew 26:61). And, when He is crucified, it will be used to taunt Him (Matthew 27:40). After He is raised, it will be seen as yet another fulfilled prophecy (Mark 10:34; 16:1–6).