What can we learn from the disciples' reaction to Moses and Elijah's appearance? The Scene on the Mount “Suddenly Moses and Elijah appeared to them, talking with Jesus.” (Matthew 17:3) • Jesus has just been transfigured; His face shines like the sun, His clothes gleam white as light (v. 2). • Peter, James, and John are fully awake (Luke 9:32) and watching the Law-giver and the premier Prophet converse with the Messiah. Why Moses and Elijah? • Moses embodies the Law (Deuteronomy 31:24-26). • Elijah represents the Prophets (Malachi 4:5). • Together they confirm that “the Law and the Prophets testify” to Christ (Romans 3:21). • Their appearance validates Jesus as the long-promised fulfillment (Matthew 5:17). The Disciples’ Immediate Reaction “Peter said to Jesus, ‘Lord, it is good for us to be here. If You wish, I will put up three shelters—one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.’ ” (Matthew 17:4) Mark adds, “For they were all so terrified that Peter did not know what to say.” (Mark 9:6) Luke notes, “Peter spoke while not realizing what he was saying.” (Luke 9:33) Key elements of their response: • Awe and excitement: “It is good for us to be here.” • Desire to act: build three tabernacles. • Misplaced equality: one shelter for each figure. • Overwhelming fear: silence and prostration when the cloud descends (Matthew 17:6). Lessons About Recognizing Jesus’ Supremacy • Equal tents imply equal honor, yet the Father interrupts: “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Listen to Him!” (Matthew 17:5). • Moses and Elijah fade; “they saw no one but Jesus alone” (v. 8). • Hebrews 12:2 calls believers to “fix our eyes on Jesus,” because even the greatest OT leaders point forward to Him. Lessons About Spiritual Enthusiasm vs. Spiritual Insight • Peter’s passion is commendable, but action without revelation can misfire. • Proverbs 19:2 warns, “It is not good to have zeal without knowledge.” • Wait for God’s directive before building anything—literal or figurative. Lessons About Listening Before Doing • The Father’s command is simple: “Listen to Him!” • James 1:19: “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” • Authentic discipleship starts with attentive ears, not ambitious plans. Lessons About Holy Fear and Comfort • The disciples fall facedown, terrified (Matthew 17:6). • Jesus touches and assures them: “Get up. Do not be afraid.” (v. 7). • Psalm 34:4 blends the two realities: “I sought the LORD, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears.” Lessons About Transient Experiences and Ongoing Obedience • The mountaintop moment is brief; they must descend to minister (Matthew 17:9-14). • Second Peter 1:16-18 recalls the event years later as a foundation for apostolic witness, not as an end in itself. • Spiritual highs are meant to strengthen daily faithfulness. Carrying the Vision Forward • Revere Christ above every other voice. • Channel enthusiasm through surrendered listening. • Let holy fear draw you closer to the Savior who touches and steadies. • Treasure mountaintop revelations, but walk out obedience in the valley—always seeing “Jesus only.” |
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