Topical Encyclopedia The Transfiguration of Jesus is a pivotal event in the New Testament, recorded in the Synoptic Gospels: Matthew 17:1-9, Mark 9:2-10, and Luke 9:28-36. This event is significant for its revelation of Jesus' divine glory and its affirmation of His messianic mission. The Transfiguration serves as a foretaste of the coming Kingdom of God and underscores the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets in Christ.Biblical Account According to the Gospel accounts, the Transfiguration took place on a high mountain, traditionally identified as Mount Tabor, although some scholars suggest Mount Hermon. Jesus took with Him Peter, James, and John, His closest disciples. As they were on the mountain, Jesus was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became dazzling white, as described in Matthew 17:2: "There He was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became as white as the light." During this miraculous event, Moses and Elijah appeared, conversing with Jesus. Their presence symbolizes the Law and the Prophets, respectively, bearing witness to Jesus as the fulfillment of both. Luke 9:31 notes that they spoke of Jesus' departure, which He was about to accomplish at Jerusalem, indicating the forthcoming crucifixion and resurrection. Peter, overwhelmed by the vision, suggested building three tabernacles for Jesus, Moses, and Elijah. However, while he was still speaking, a bright cloud enveloped them, and a voice from the cloud declared, "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Listen to Him!" (Matthew 17:5). This divine affirmation echoes the voice heard at Jesus' baptism and emphasizes His unique Sonship and authority. Theological Significance The Transfiguration is rich in theological meaning. It reveals the divine nature of Christ, affirming His identity as the Son of God. The event also prefigures the glory of the resurrected Christ and the future glory of believers. The presence of Moses and Elijah highlights Jesus as the culmination of the Old Testament revelation, fulfilling the Law and the Prophets. The command to "Listen to Him" underscores the authority of Jesus' teachings and the necessity of obedience to His words. The Transfiguration thus serves as a divine endorsement of Jesus' mission and message, preparing the disciples for the impending challenges of His passion and crucifixion. Disciples' Response The disciples' reaction to the Transfiguration is one of awe and fear. When they heard the voice from the cloud, they fell facedown, terrified. Jesus approached and touched them, saying, "Get up. Do not be afraid" (Matthew 17:7). This reassurance from Jesus highlights His compassion and the transformative power of His presence. As they descended the mountain, Jesus instructed them not to tell anyone about the vision until the Son of Man had risen from the dead (Mark 9:9). This command reflects the necessity of understanding the Transfiguration in light of the resurrection, which would fully reveal Jesus' divine identity and mission. Conclusion The Transfiguration of Jesus remains a profound testament to His divine glory and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. It invites believers to behold the majesty of Christ and to heed His call to discipleship, living in anticipation of the ultimate revelation of His Kingdom. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 17:2-9And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light. Nave's Topical Index Library The Transfiguration. Prayer and Transfiguration The Transfiguration The Transfiguration of Christ The Transfiguration. The Transfiguration: an Emergency Measure. Matthew 16:28-17:1-8. ... The Transfiguration A vision of Jesus. The Transfiguration. Discussion of the Saying of Peter. Resources What is the significance of Mount Hermon in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the significance of Mount Tabor in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What were the key events in the life of Jesus Christ? (Part 2) | GotQuestions.org Transfiguration: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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