The Temple was the central feature of Judaism, especially during the period of the Kings, the divided kingdom and following the exile.
How does the Temple feature from here on out in Matthew’s narrative? See 27:5 and 27:40. It is the place where Judas throws the now worthless coins of betrayal in repentance and remorse. It is also again the subject of accusation against Jesus, as those gathered at the cross deride him.
The Gospel of John gives us another perspective on the Temple. In John’s Gospel the Temple cleansing appears at the very beginning of the Gospel (2:19-21), where Jesus speaks of the Temple of his body (tou naou tou somatos autou). In 1 Corinthians 3:17 St. Paul picks up on this image, declaring boldly: “Y’all are that temple!” (by virtue of the Holy Spirit dwelling within).