Jesus Is Transfigured

ByJim Stephens

Scripture: Matthew 17:1-11 (Click link for scripture in Bible Gateway)

1 Six days later Jesus took Peter and the two brothers, James and John, and led them up a high mountain to be alone. 2 As the men watched, Jesus’ appearance was transformed so that his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became as white as light. 3 Suddenly, Moses and Elijah appeared and began talking with Jesus. 4 Peter exclaimed, “Lord, it’s wonderful for us to be here! If you want, I’ll make three shelters as memorials—one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” 5 But even as he spoke, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my dearly loved Son, who brings me great joy. Listen to him.” 6 The disciples were terrified and fell face down on the ground. 7 Then Jesus came over and touched them. “Get up,” he said. “Don’t be afraid.” 8 And when they looked up, Moses and Elijah were gone, and they saw only Jesus. (Matthew 17:1–8 NLT)

  • Let’s address fairness. Life is not always fair. Did Jesus show favoritism? His relationship with Peter, James, and John makes it apparent that he did. If you have questions about that, ask him when you see him. If it seems important then!
  • Jesus’ appearance was transformed. His face shone like the sun, his clothes became white as light. Is this what we’ll all look like when we’re in the next world?
  • Moses and Elijah appeared and began talking with Jesus. So here’s another glimpse into the next realm! Moses and Elijah were still individuals, distinguishable from other individuals. But like Jesus after the resurrection, they “suddenly appeared” and as suddenly disappeared.
  • Peter, “This is wonderful! I’ll make three shelters and we can stay all day!” Peter’s reaction isn’t abnormal. “This is great! I’ll do some stuff to make you comfortable and we’ll keep this going!” I’d probably have done the same thing!
  • This is my dearly loved Son, who brings me great joy! Listen to him! For me, and I believe for the church, it’s time to focus anew on Jesus. He’s the Father’s joy and delight, he’s the focal point of the gospels, and he’s the one we should give first priority in our listening.
  • Moses and Elijah were gone, and they saw only Jesus! When the cloud lifted, and the dust settled, they only saw Jesus, and he looked pretty much like he did at breakfast.
  • Let’s keep our eyes on Jesus (and listen to him and do what he says to do!)

Prayer:

Father, I’m learning to listen to Jesus and to watch him more closely. There are lots of other voices, “Christian” and otherwise, and it gets noisy sometimes. I choose to follow Jesus and try to influence others to do the same! Thanks for your patience with me!