GLORY ON THE MOUNT

MATTHEW 17:1–13

… and He was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became as white as the light

(Matt. 17:2).

Probably the most dazzling revelation of the glory of Christ in His entire life took place on the Mount of Transfiguration. The site of this extraordinary event is not known for certain, but it probably took place on Mount Hermon, which rises to 9,200 feet and is situated near Caesarea Philippi.

The unveiling of Christ’s glory was witnessed by only three of the disciples, known as the inner circle—Peter, James, and John. The text says that Jesus was “transfigured.” We may divide this phenomenon into three different stages. First, there is the transfiguration itself. Second, there is the appearance of Moses and Elijah. And third, there is the voice from heaven.

The word used for transfiguration is translated from the word metamorphosis. It indicates a real change in form. The prefix “trans” means across, so a limit or barrier was crossed here. Perhaps we might call it a crossing of the line between natural and supernatural, between human and divine.

We read in the text that Jesus’ face shone like the sun. This shining was not merely the human form reflecting the glory of God, as Moses did when he came before God. It was something more. Here, the incarnate divine Logos manifested His own glory. What the disciples beheld was not a reflected glory, but Christ’s own glory—thus His superiority to any other was emphasized. The source of light that radiated so brilliantly from Jesus’ garments was not external, the light source was Christ Himself.

As Jesus was transformed, He spoke with Moses and Elijah. These two are significant not only because of their mysterious departures from earth but because of the roles they played in the Old Testament. Moses and Elijah together represent the Law and the Prophets, the summary of God’s teaching in the Old Covenant. It may be that they spoke with Jesus about His forthcoming death, that which was necessary to fulfill the Law and the Prophets.

Finally, the voice from the cloud says, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear Him!” The glory of God was made manifest to the disciples so that they might bear testimony to the person and work of Christ, the Son of the Living God.

CORAM DEO

Zechariah 10–12

Revelation 20

As impossible as it might be, try to put yourself in the disciples’ place. What would your reaction have been to the transfiguration of Christ? As you read through the account of this glorious transformation, think about the majesty and power of Christ. It is sometimes easy to forget His glory in this difficult world.

For further study. Mark 9:2–8 • Luke 9:27–36 • Heb. 1:1–3 • Rev. 22:4–5

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