"as He was transfigured before them, His face shone like the sun and His clothes became as white as the light." v2 Matthew 17:1-13 NKJV
Transfiguration may denote spiritual transformation. However here, it indicates a visible transformation affirming the essential glory of Jesus the Messiah.
Jesus took Peter, John and James up the mountain - geographically more than likely Mount Hermon so that He could show them in His gloried state. As He did, His face shone like the sun and His clothes became as white as the light. The three disciples were witnessing this incredible transformation. This really clarifies His time in Gethsemane, where the arresting officers met with Jesus, drew back and fell over. (John 18:6). They were seeing Jesus in His visible state, not as a man but as the Son of God, the King of kings.
The appearance of Moses and Elijah signifies that the Law (Moses) and the Prophets (Elijah) were there to discuss Jesus' impending death and support Him in His redemptive mission.
Peter - the one who was always the first to defend Jesus and offer his advice, once again let his words come out of his mouth without considering them said, 'Lord, it is good for us to be here; if You wish' let us make three tabernacles, one for You, one for Moses and one for Elijah' v4. Peter may have been suggesting a desire to prolong this visit. In a way, he had taken charge of things and quite selfishly he was guilty of making Jesus an equal with Moses and Elijah by suggesting three tents for them. This brought a rebuke from the Father, 'This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear Him.' v5. The disciples on hearing this, fell to the ground in fear, but Jesus touched them and told them to get back up and not be afraid. When they did, Jesus was on His own.
Then in v9, we see Jesus telling the disciples to suspend talking about what happened until after the Resurrection. The others would understand much better then about all they had witnessed. To tell them now would lead to them being overwhelmed and bewildered.
Conclusion
(1) Jesus revealed to them His glorified state. An amazing privilege to the three He probably trusted the most.
(2) Moses, was a representative of the Old Covenant and a promise of salvation which was soon to be fulfilled in the death of Jesus.
(3) Elijah, was the appointed restorer of all things and essential in the discussion of Jesus' death.
(4) Be slow to speak and think things through fully before speaking out. Don't try to organise Jesus in your plans. He's a far better organiser than we can ever be and knows what He is doing.
(5) When someone tells you something in confidence, keep it that way. Don't go telling others in the guise of praying for them. In the same way, if God shares something to you about someone, honour this by keeping it secret unless He tells you otherwise.
Copyriight 2021 Grahame Howard
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