Christ’s Transfiguration

Topic: Transfiguration
Passage: Matthew 16:24–13

June 12, 2021

Commentary

Discipleship involves a cost (vv. 24-26). Jesus said, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me” (v.24). To deny self does not necessarily mean to give up things but to give yourself wholly to Christ and identify in His shame and death (vv. 27-28). To take up a cross does not mean to carry burdens or have problems. It simply means making oneself completely available to the master. True disciples have the promise of full reward at His coming (v. 27). Then Jesus promised that some of the disciples would “see the son of man coming in His kingdom” (v. 28). He chose Peter, James and John as witnesses to this event.

The text doesn’t say for sure where the miracle took place, but it was probably on Mount Hermon, which is close to Caesarea Philippi (v. 1). Jesus’ transfiguration indicates an actual change of form, not a mere change of appearance. It states that His face was as brilliant as the sun and His clothes were as clear as the whiteness of pure light (v. 2). Then Moses and Elijah appeared (vv. 3-4). Moses represented the Law and Elijah the prophets.

Again, Peter tried to tell Jesus what to do. He suggested that they build three shelters for Jesus, Moses, and Elijah so they could stay there and enjoy glory (v. 4)! While Peter was still speaking God the Father interrupted by speaking from a bright cloud (v. 5). He said, “This is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased; listen to Him”. With all this the disciples became terri­fied and fell on their faces (v. 6). Jesus came over and touched them and told them not to be afraid and to get up (vv. 7-8). He had already resumed His normal appearance and Moses and Elijah were gone. As they descended the mountain Jesus commanded them not to tell anyone what they had seen (v. 9). Jesus told them why Elijah had to come before the Messiah (vv. 10-11) and how the Son of Man would also suffer (vv. 12-13).

Application

What has been a mountaintop experience in my life? Did it change the course of my life?

Matthew 16:24– 13 (NET)

Verses not found.