What does "eyewitnesses of His majesty" reveal about the apostles' testimony? Setting the scene 2 Peter 1:16 – “For we did not follow cleverly devised myths when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of His majesty.” Eyewitness testimony defined • “Eyewitnesses” translates a word for those who personally see an event—first-hand, not second-hand. • “His majesty” points to Christ’s unveiled glory—divine splendor reserved for God alone. What the apostles saw • The Transfiguration (Matthew 17:1-8; Mark 9:2-8; Luke 9:28-36). – Jesus’ face shone “like the sun” and His clothes became “dazzling white.” – Moses and Elijah appeared, authenticating Jesus as the fulfillment of Law and Prophets. – The Father’s voice: “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Listen to Him.” • John echoes the same experience: “We have seen His glory” (John 1:14). • Peter reminds his readers he heard that heavenly voice “from the Majestic Glory” (2 Peter 1:17-18). Why their eyewitness status matters • Verifies historicity—no “cleverly devised myths.” • Confirms Jesus’ identity as divine Son, not merely a teacher. • Guarantees the certainty of His future “coming” (parousia); if they saw a preview, His return is sure. • Establishes apostolic authority: their written word stands on direct observation, not speculation. • Provides a foundation for faith that is objective, evidence-based, and anchored in history. Supporting Scriptures • 1 John 1:1–3 – “what we have heard, what we have seen with our eyes… we proclaim to you.” • Acts 1:8 – the risen Christ commissions them as “My witnesses.” • Luke 24:48 – “You are witnesses of these things.” • Hebrews 2:3–4 – salvation “confirmed to us by those who heard Him.” • Revelation 1:1–2 – John testifies to “all he saw.” Implications for us today • We read apostolic writings as reliable courtroom testimony, not religious folklore. • Confidence in Scripture’s literal accuracy flows from the apostles’ direct observation. • The glimpse of glory assures believers that Christ’s power and kingdom are real and soon revealed (2 Peter 1:19). • Their witness urges us to “pay attention” to the prophetic word “as to a lamp shining in a dark place” until the day dawns. |
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