Matthew 17:1-13 And after six days Jesus takes Peter, James, and John his brother, and brings them up into an high mountain apart,… I. WHAT MIGHT HAVE HAPPENED TO THE OTHER DISCIPLES AFTER THEY HAD SEEN THE TRANSFIGURATION. There were four things, either of which might have occurred. 1. They might have seen nobody with them on the holy mount; they might have found all gone but themselves. In such a case they would have been in a sorry plight, like those who, having begun to taste a banquet, suddenly find all the viands swept away; like thirsty men who have tasted the cooling crystal drops, and then seen the fountain dried up before their eyes. How many people after such experiences have nothing left of joy or comfort; the whole has been a splendid vision and nothing more. Nothing is left to bless the present hour. Christ is with us for ever by His Spirit. 2. They might have seen Moses only. Who would exchange Christ for Moses; the sun for the moon; love for law. There are many who see Moses only; they delight in outward ordinances, precepts and duties. They had bright visions once, but have relapsed into condemnation. 3. They might have seen Elijah only. Instead of the gentle Saviour they might have seen the stern-spirited Elias. 4. They might have seen Moses and Elias with Jesus, even as in the Transfiguration. Moses could preach the law and make men tremble, then Jesus could follow with His gospel of grace. Elias could flash the thunder bolt in their faces, and then Christ could have uplifted the humble spirits. Would not the assemblage of such diverse forces have contributed to the greatest success. They were all merged in Jesus only; as the morning star in the sun. II. WHAT REALLY HAPPENED — "They saw no man save Jesus only." 1. This was all they wanted to see for their comfort — "Be not afraid." All the Saviour we want we find in Jesus only. 2. Jesus was enough for a Master — "No man can serve two masters." 3. He was enough as their power for future life. 4. He is enough as our reward. III. WHAT HE DESIRE MAY HAPPEN. That the great object of our thoughts, motives, and acts may be Jesus only. (C. H. Spurgeon.) Parallel Verses KJV: And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart, |
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