The Transfiguration 1After six days Jesus took with Him Peter, James, and John the brother of James, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. 2There He was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became as white as the light. 3Suddenly Moses and Elijah appeared before them, talking with Jesus. 4Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here. If You wish, I will put up three sheltersa—one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” 5While Peter was still speaking, a bright cloud enveloped them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.b Listen to Him!” 6When the disciples heard this, they fell facedown in terror. 7Then Jesus came over and touched them. “Get up,” He said. “Do not be afraid.” 8And when they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus. 9As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus commanded them, “Do not tell anyone about this vision until the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.” 10The disciples asked Him, “Why then do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?” 11Jesus replied, “Elijah does indeed come, and he will restore all things. 12But I tell you that Elijah has already come, and they did not recognize him, but have done to him whatever they wished. In the same way, the Son of Man will suffer at their hands.” 13Then the disciples understood that He was speaking to them about John the Baptist. The Boy with a Demon 14When they came to the crowd, a man came up to Jesus and knelt before Him. 15“Lord, have mercy on my son,” he said. “He has seizures and is suffering terribly. He often falls into the fire or into the water. 16I brought him to Your disciples, but they could not heal him.” 17“O unbelieving and perverse generation!” Jesus replied. “How long must I remain with you? How long must I put up with you? Bring the boy here to Me.” 18Then Jesus rebuked the demon, and it came out of the boy, and he was healed from that moment. The Power of Faith 19Afterward the disciples came to Jesus privately and asked, “Why couldn’t we drive it out?” 20“Because you have so little faith,” He answered. “For truly I tell you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.”c The Second Prediction of the Passion 22When they gathered together in Galilee, Jesus told them, “The Son of Man is about to be delivered into the hands of men. 23They will kill Him, and on the third day He will be raised to life.” And the disciples were deeply grieved. The Temple Tax 24After they had arrived in Capernaum, the collectors of the two-drachma taxd came to Peter and asked, “Does your Teacher pay the two drachmas?” 25“Yes,” he answered. When Peter entered the house, Jesus preempted him. “What do you think, Simon?” He asked. “From whom do the kings of the earth collect customs and taxes: from their own sons, or from others?” 26“From others,” Peter answered. “Then the sons are exempt,” Jesus said to him. 27“But so that we may not offend them, go to the sea, cast a hook, and take the first fish you catch. When you open its mouth, you will find a four-drachma coin.e Take it and give it to them for My tax and yours.” Footnotes: 4 a Or three tabernacles 5 b Cited in 2 Peter 1:17 20 c BYZ and TR include 21But this kind does not come out except by prayer and fasting; see Mark 9:29. 24 d Greek the didrachma; twice in this verse 27 e Greek a stater; that is, a silver coin worth approximately one shekel Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub  Matthew 17 Summary The TransfigurationVerses 1–8 – The Transfiguration Verses 9–13 – Elijah Has Come Verses 14–21 – Deliverance of a Demon-Possessed Boy Verses 22–23 – Second Prediction of Death and Resurrection Verses 24–27 – The Temple Tax and the Coin in the Fish’s Mouth Matthew 17 paints a vivid portrait of Jesus' divine identity and mission, whilst presenting the struggles and doubts faced by His disciples. The chapter uncovers the spiritual realities beneath the physical world and reveals how faith can transcend human limitations. The events within it are both a lesson and a challenge to every believer. Historical Setting • Time: Roughly six months before the crucifixion, soon after Peter’s confession at Caesarea Philippi (Matthew 16). • Place: The “high mountain” is unnamed. Early tradition pointed to Mount Tabor; many scholars favor Mount Hermon, closer to Caesarea Philippi and much taller, fitting the description. • Political climate: Herod Antipas rules Galilee; Jewish leaders in Jerusalem watch Jesus closely; Rome holds ultimate authority. The Transfiguration: A Glimpse of Glory • Revelation of Identity: The shining face and clothes echo Exodus 34:29–35 where Moses’ face glows after meeting God. Here, however, the light emanates from Jesus Himself, underscoring His divine nature (cf. Hebrews 1:3). • Law and Prophets Witness: Moses (giver of Law) and Elijah (pre-eminent prophet) stand with Jesus, affirming Him as the fulfillment of both (cf. Luke 24:27). • Father’s Voice: Heard previously at Jesus’ baptism (Matthew 3:17), the heavenly affirmation now commands, “Listen to Him!”—placing Jesus’ word above all others (cf. Deuteronomy 18:15). • Disciples’ Fear and Comfort: Falling facedown recalls Israel at Sinai (Exodus 20:18–21). Jesus’ touch and “Do not be afraid” mirror repeated biblical assurances (Isaiah 41:10). Why Silence until the Resurrection? • Full Picture Required: The disciples needed to grasp the cross and resurrection before proclaiming the glory (cf. Acts 2:32–36). • Prevent Misinterpretation: Publicizing the event too soon might have fueled mistaken messianic expectations (cf. John 6:15). Elijah and John the Baptist • Malachi 4:5 foretold Elijah’s return “before the great and awesome day of the LORD.” • John the Baptist came “in the spirit and power of Elijah” (Luke 1:17); his rugged appearance and bold call to repentance matched Elijah’s ministry (2 Kings 1:8). • Jesus clarifies double fulfillment: an Elijah-like forerunner already came, yet Elijah himself still appears on the mountain—a preview of future restoration (cf. Revelation 11:3–6 for prophetic echoes). Faith That Moves Mountains • Jesus contrasts the disciples’ momentary doubt with mustard-seed faith—tiny yet living and able to grow (cf. Matthew 13:31–32). • Authority over Demons: Power rests not in formulas but in trusting dependence on God (cf. Mark 9:29 where prayer is highlighted). Second Passion Prediction • Repetition underscores certainty: first prediction in Matthew 16:21; third in Matthew 20:18–19. • Disciples’ Grief: They hear “killed” but struggle to process “raised.” Post-resurrection joy will replace sorrow (cf. John 16:20). Temple Tax and Sonship • Two-drachma tax (half-shekel, Exodus 30:13–16) supported temple maintenance. Every adult Jewish male paid annually. • Kings tax “others,” not their “sons” (v25). Jesus, the Son, is exempt; by extension His disciples share in His freedom (John 8:36). • Yet Jesus chooses to pay, modeling humility and peacemaking (Romans 12:18). • Miracle of Provision: Creation itself serves the Creator—coin inside the fish demonstrates sovereignty over nature (Psalm 24:1). Cultural and Archaeological Notes • Half-Shekel Coinage: Tyrian silver shekels, prized for purity, were commonly used for temple tax. A “four-drachma” stater equaled exactly two half-shekels. • Fishing in the Sea of Galilee: Hooks, not nets, are specified—rare in the Gospels—highlighting precision of obedience. • Bright Cloud Imagery: In Second Temple Judaism a luminous cloud (Shekinah) signified God’s presence (cf. 1 Kings 8:10–11). Old Testament Connections • Transfiguration parallels Sinai: mountain, cloud, voice, fear (Exodus 24:15–18). Jesus is the greater Moses leading a new exodus (Luke 9:31). • “Listen to Him” recalls Deuteronomy 18:15’s promise of a prophet like Moses. • Healing the boy echoes Elijah/Elisha miracles (1 Kings 17:21–24; 2 Kings 4:34–35) showing Jesus as the ultimate healer. • Coin in fish displays provision reminiscent of God’s supplying manna (Exodus 16) and the widow’s oil (2 Kings 4). New Testament Links • 2 Peter 1:16–18—Peter cites the Transfiguration as eye-witness proof of Jesus’ majesty. • Hebrews 12:18–24 contrasts the fearsome Sinai with joyous Mount Zion, using Transfiguration imagery of a better covenant. • Revelation 1:13–16 describes the glorified Christ with face shining like the sun—language rooted in Matthew 17. Practical Discipleship Lessons • Glory and Suffering: High-point revelations often precede valleys of testing. Disciples must follow Jesus down the mountain to serve the needy. • Listen to Jesus Above All: Voices of tradition, culture, or even revered leaders (Moses, Elijah) are secondary to Christ’s word. • Faith Relies on Relationship: Spiritual authority grows in prayerful dependence, not in self-confidence. • Freedom Used to Serve: Though sons are exempt, love chooses considerate action for others’ sake (1 Corinthians 9:19–23). Prophetic Foreshadowing • Transfiguration previews the future kingdom when Jesus will appear in glory with resurrected saints (1 Thessalonians 4:14). • The Father’s command “Listen to Him” points ahead to final judgment where obedience to Christ determines destiny (John 12:48). Summary Thought Matthew 17 sweeps from mountaintop splendor to everyday obligation, showing Jesus as radiant Son of God, foretold suffering Servant, compassionate Deliverer, and humble Provider. Seeing His glory leads to deeper faith, self-giving love, and confident hope in the victory of resurrection. Connections to Additional Scriptures Exodus 34:29-35Moses' face shining after speaking with God, paralleling the Transfiguration. 2 Peter 1:16-18 Peter's testimony of witnessing the Transfiguration, affirming its significance. Hebrews 1:1-3 Jesus as the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of His being. Philippians 4:19 God's promise to supply all our needs according to His riches in glory. Teaching Points The Transfiguration of Jesus (Matthew 17:1-8)Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a high mountain where He is transfigured before them, His face shining like the sun, and His clothes becoming as white as light. Moses and Elijah appear, talking with Jesus, symbolizing the Law and the Prophets bearing witness to Him. A bright cloud envelops them, and a voice from the cloud says, This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Listen to Him! (Matthew 17:5). The Disciples' Reaction and Jesus' Comfort (Matthew 17:6-8) The disciples fall facedown in fear, but Jesus touches them and tells them not to be afraid. When they look up, they see no one except Jesus, emphasizing His preeminence. The Healing of a Demon-Possessed Boy (Matthew 17:14-21) A man approaches Jesus, pleading for His mercy on his son, whom the disciples could not heal. Jesus rebukes the demon, and the boy is healed instantly, demonstrating His authority over evil. Jesus explains that their inability to heal was due to their little faith and teaches that faith as small as a mustard seed can move mountains. Jesus Predicts His Death and Resurrection (Matthew 17:22-23) Jesus foretells His betrayal, death, and resurrection, preparing His disciples for the events to come. The Temple Tax (Matthew 17:24-27) Jesus instructs Peter to find a coin in the mouth of a fish to pay the temple tax, illustrating His sovereignty over creation and His provision. Practical Applications Embrace the Glory of ChristReflect on the majesty and divinity of Jesus as revealed in the Transfiguration and let it deepen your worship and reverence for Him. Listen to Jesus Heed the command from the Father to Listen to Him! by prioritizing Jesus' teachings in your daily life. Exercise Faith Cultivate a faith that trusts in God's power to overcome obstacles, no matter how insurmountable they seem. Prepare for Trials Like the disciples, be prepared for trials and challenges, knowing that Jesus has already overcome the world. Trust in God's Provision Rely on God's provision in all circumstances, trusting that He will meet your needs in unexpected ways. People 1. JesusJesus is the central figure in Matthew 17. He is depicted as the Son of God who is transfigured before His disciples, revealing His divine glory. The Greek term used for Jesus is Ἰησοῦς (Iēsous), which is the Greek form of the Hebrew name Yeshua, meaning "Yahweh is salvation." 2. Peter (Simon Peter) One of Jesus' closest disciples, Peter is present at the Transfiguration. He is known for his impulsive nature and strong faith. In Greek, his name is Πέτρος (Petros), meaning "rock." 3. James (son of Zebedee) James, the brother of John, is another disciple present at the Transfiguration. He is part of Jesus' inner circle. His name in Greek is Ἰάκωβος (Iakōbos), which is equivalent to the Hebrew name Jacob. 4. John (son of Zebedee) John, the brother of James, is also present at the Transfiguration. He is known for his close relationship with Jesus and later authors several New Testament books. His Greek name is Ἰωάννης (Iōannēs), derived from the Hebrew name Yochanan, meaning "Yahweh is gracious." 5. Moses Moses appears during the Transfiguration, representing the Law. He is a key figure in the Old Testament, known for leading the Israelites out of Egypt. His name in Greek is Μωϋσῆς (Mōusēs), which is derived from the Hebrew name Moshe. 6. Elijah Elijah, the prophet, also appears during the Transfiguration, representing the Prophets. He is known for his powerful ministry and being taken up to heaven in a whirlwind. His Greek name is Ἠλίας (Ēlias), which comes from the Hebrew name Eliyahu, meaning "My God is Yahweh." 7. The Father (God) God the Father speaks from a cloud during the Transfiguration, affirming Jesus as His beloved Son. The voice from the cloud is a divine confirmation of Jesus' identity and mission. 8. The Crowd While not named individually, the crowd is mentioned when Jesus and His disciples descend from the mountain. They are witnesses to Jesus' miracles and teachings. 9. The Demon-Possessed Boy A boy possessed by a demon is brought to Jesus for healing. His condition is described in the context of Jesus' power over evil spirits. 10. The Boy's Father The father of the demon-possessed boy seeks Jesus' help for his son, demonstrating faith in Jesus' ability to heal. 11. The Disciples The group of Jesus' followers, including those not specifically named in this chapter, who learn from Jesus and witness His miracles. 12. The Tax Collectors They inquire about Jesus' payment of the temple tax, leading to a teaching moment with Peter. Places 1. The High MountainMatthew 17:1: "After six days Jesus took with Him Peter, James, and John the brother of James, and led them up a high mountain by themselves." This is traditionally understood to be Mount Tabor or Mount Hermon, where the Transfiguration of Jesus took place. The Greek word used for "mountain" is "ὄρος" (oros), indicating a significant elevation. 2. Galilee Matthew 17:22: "When they came together in Galilee, He said to them, 'The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men.'" Galilee is a region in northern Israel where Jesus conducted much of His ministry. The Greek term "Γαλιλαία" (Galilaia) refers to this area known for its diverse population and significant role in Jesus' life. 3. Capernaum Matthew 17:24: "After they had arrived in Capernaum, the collectors of the two-drachma tax came to Peter and asked, 'Does your Teacher pay the two drachmas?'" Capernaum is a town on the northwestern shore of the Sea of Galilee. It served as a central hub for Jesus' ministry. The Greek "Καφαρναούμ" (Kapharnaoum) reflects its historical and geographical significance. Events 1. The Transfiguration of Jesus (Matthew 17:1-8)Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a high mountain. He is transfigured before them, and His face shines like the sun, and His clothes become as white as light. Moses and Elijah appear, talking with Jesus. Peter suggests making three tabernacles, but a bright cloud envelops them, and a voice from the cloud says, "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Listen to Him!" The disciples fall facedown in fear, but Jesus touches them, telling them not to be afraid. 2. The Question about Elijah (Matthew 17:9-13) As they descend the mountain, Jesus instructs the disciples not to tell anyone about the vision until He is raised from the dead. The disciples ask why the scribes say Elijah must come first. Jesus explains that Elijah has already come, referring to John the Baptist, and they did not recognize him. 3. The Healing of a Boy with a Demon (Matthew 17:14-21) A man approaches Jesus, kneeling before Him, and pleads for his son, who is possessed by a demon causing seizures. The disciples could not heal him. Jesus rebukes the demon, and it comes out of the boy. The disciples ask why they could not drive it out, and Jesus replies that it is due to their little faith, stating that faith as small as a mustard seed can move mountains. 4. Jesus Predicts His Death and Resurrection (Matthew 17:22-23) While in Galilee, Jesus tells His disciples that the Son of Man will be betrayed into the hands of men, killed, and raised on the third day. The disciples are deeply grieved by this prediction. 5. The Temple Tax (Matthew 17:24-27) In Capernaum, tax collectors ask Peter if Jesus pays the temple tax. Jesus, knowing this, questions Peter about the kings of the earth collecting duties. He explains that the sons are exempt but instructs Peter to catch a fish, which will have a coin in its mouth to pay the tax for both of them. Topics 1. The Transfiguration (Matthew 17:1-8)Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a high mountain where He is transfigured before them. His face shines like the sun, and His clothes become as white as light. Moses and Elijah appear, talking with Jesus. A bright cloud envelops them, and a voice from the cloud says, "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Listen to Him!" (Matthew 17:5). The Greek word for "transfigured" is "μετεμορφώθη" (metemorphōthē), indicating a transformation in form and appearance. 2. Jesus Heals a Demon-Possessed Boy (Matthew 17:14-21) A man approaches Jesus, kneeling before Him, and asks for mercy on his son, who is suffering from seizures and is possessed by a demon. The disciples were unable to heal him. Jesus rebukes the demon, and it comes out of the boy. Jesus explains to the disciples that their lack of faith was the reason they could not cast it out, emphasizing the power of faith as small as a mustard seed (Matthew 17:20). 3. Jesus Predicts His Death and Resurrection (Matthew 17:22-23) While in Galilee, Jesus tells His disciples that the Son of Man will be betrayed into the hands of men, killed, and raised on the third day. The disciples are deeply grieved by this prediction. The term "Son of Man" (υἱὸς τοῦ ἀνθρώπου, huios tou anthrōpou) is a title Jesus uses for Himself, emphasizing both His humanity and His messianic role. 4. The Temple Tax (Matthew 17:24-27) When Jesus and His disciples arrive in Capernaum, the collectors of the two-drachma temple tax ask Peter if Jesus pays the tax. Jesus uses the opportunity to teach about His divine sonship and the freedom it entails, yet instructs Peter to catch a fish, in whose mouth he will find a coin to pay the tax for both of them. This passage highlights Jesus' submission to earthly authorities while affirming His divine identity. Themes 1. The Transfiguration of JesusThis theme highlights the divine nature and glory of Jesus as He is transfigured before Peter, James, and John. The appearance of Moses and Elijah signifies the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets in Christ. The voice from the cloud saying, "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Listen to Him!" (Matthew 17:5) emphasizes Jesus' authority and divine sonship. The Greek word "μεταμορφόω" (metamorphoō) is used for "transfigured," indicating a transformation that reveals His divine glory. 2. The Power of Faith Jesus teaches about the power of faith when He says, "Truly I tell you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you." (Matthew 17:20). This theme underscores the importance of faith in the believer's life, suggesting that even a small amount of genuine faith can accomplish great things. 3. Jesus Foretells His Death and Resurrection Jesus predicts His suffering, death, and resurrection, saying, "The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men. They will kill Him, and on the third day He will be raised to life." (Matthew 17:22-23). This theme is central to the Gospel message, highlighting the purpose of Jesus' mission and the hope of resurrection. 4. The Temple Tax and Jesus' Sonship The incident of the temple tax (Matthew 17:24-27) illustrates Jesus' identity as the Son of God, who is exempt from the tax. However, He instructs Peter to pay it to avoid offense, demonstrating humility and submission to earthly authorities. The Greek term "υἱός" (huios) for "son" emphasizes Jesus' unique relationship with the Father. Answering Tough Questions 1. Matthew 17:2 states that Jesus’ face “shone like the sun.” How can this be reconciled with scientific observation and common experience? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the Transfiguration of Jesus strengthen your understanding of His divine nature? 2. Peter suggested building shelters for Jesus, Moses, and Elijah. What does this tell us about Peter's understanding of the event? How does this relate to how we might react to divine experiences? 3. How does God's declaration of Jesus as His beloved Son impact the way we understand Jesus' mission? 4. How does Jesus' response to the disciples' inability to heal the demon-possessed boy speak to our own faith or lack thereof? 5. How can the faith of the boy's father in seeking Jesus for a miracle encourage us in our own lives? 6. Why do you think the disciples were unable to cast out the demon? 7. Why do you think Jesus chose to pay the temple tax despite His divine status? How does this influence our perspective towards obeying civil laws? 8. How does Jesus' prediction of His death and resurrection impact the disciples? How should it impact us today? 9. How can we apply the principle of faith, prayer, and fasting as shown in this chapter to our daily lives? 10. What does Jesus' reference to John the Baptist as Elijah tell us about understanding prophecies? 11. How do Jesus' teachings in this chapter help us handle doubt and increase faith? 12. In what ways can Jesus' interaction with the temple tax collectors inform our understanding of our obligations to society and government? 13. Why did Jesus ask the disciples to keep the Transfiguration a secret until after the resurrection? 14. How does the story of the demon-possessed boy teach us about spiritual warfare? 15. How does the narrative of finding the coin in the fish's mouth demonstrate God's provision for us? 16. How would you respond if you were present during the Transfiguration? 17. How can we practice faith like that of the boy's father in the midst of hopelessness? 18. How does the prophecy about Elijah help us understand God's foreknowledge? 19. What can we learn from Jesus about facing our own 'cross' or hardships? 20. How can we maintain a faith-filled perspective in the face of earthly authority, as Jesus did with the temple tax? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions |
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