Matthew Chapter 17- Part 1
Jesus is transfigured- Read (Matthew 17:1-8) (Mark 9:2-8)(Luke 9:28-36)
The synoptic gospel authors write about the transfiguration of Jesus which was witnessed by Peter, James and John; three disciples of Jesus. Peter mentions him being an eyewitness of this in his second epistle...(2 Peter 1:16-18)
Jesus took his disciples, Peter, James, and John with him on a high mountain by themselves and he was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and his clothes became as white as the light. Moses and Elijah appeared to them, talking with Jesus and spoke of his death which he was about to accomplish at Jerusalem. As they were parting from him, Peter said to Jesus, "Lord, it is good for us to be here; if you wish, let us make three tabernacles here: one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah." While he was still speaking, a bright cloud overshadowed them; and suddenly a voice came out of the cloud, saying, "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Listen to Him!" And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their faces and were greatly afraid. But Jesus came and touched them and said, "Arise, and do not be afraid." When they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus only.
Even when Jesus was baptized, there was a voice from heaven which said, "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased." (Matthew 3:17) Here another statement is made by the Father, which is "Listen to Him" signifying Jesus to be the mouth piece or representative of the Father. Moses represented the Law and Elijah the Prophets and both, the Law and the Prophets found fulfillment in Jesus. Peter blurted out what came to his mind on the spur of the moment and the heavenly voice brought great fear to the disciples, but they were reassured by Jesus.
The transfiguration signifies God exalting and honoring Jesus above all creation; his holiness and sanctity being shown forth by his body and even clothes becoming radiant with the glory of God.
Some have identified Mount Tabor as the site of the transfiguration, but there is no evidence suggesting that. Mount Tabor has long been a place of Christian pilgrimage and is the site of the Church of the Transfiguration.
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