Imagine climbing a high mountain and witnessing a dazzling transformation. In Matthew 17, Jesus reveals His divine glory to His closest friends, Peter, James, and John, in a breathtaking moment that changes everything.
The Reading: Matthew 17
World English Bible1 After six days, Jesus took with him Peter, James, and John his brother, and brought them up into a high mountain by themselves.
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2 He was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and his garments became as white as the light.
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3 Behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them talking with him.
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4 Peter answered, and said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here. If you want, let’s make three tents here: one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.”
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5 While he was still speaking, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them. Behold, a voice came out of the cloud, saying, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Listen to him.”
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6 When the disciples heard it, they fell on their faces, and were very afraid.
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7 Jesus came and touched them and said, “Get up, and don’t be afraid.”
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8 Lifting up their eyes, they saw no one, except Jesus alone.
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9 As they were coming down from the mountain, Jesus commanded them, saying, “Don’t tell anyone what you saw, until the Son of Man has risen from the dead.”
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10 His disciples asked him, saying, “Then why do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?”
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11 Jesus answered them, “Elijah indeed comes first, and will restore all things,
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12 but I tell you that Elijah has come already, and they didn’t recognize him, but did to him whatever they wanted to. Even so the Son of Man will also suffer by them.”
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13 Then the disciples understood that he spoke to them of John the Baptizer.
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14 When they came to the multitude, a man came to him, kneeling down to him, and saying,
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15 “Lord, have mercy on my son, for he is epileptic, and suffers grievously; for he often falls into the fire, and often into the water.
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16 So I brought him to your disciples, and they could not cure him.”
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17 Jesus answered, “Faithless and perverse generation! How long will I be with you? How long will I bear with you? Bring him here to me.”
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18 Jesus rebuked him, the demon went out of him, and the boy was cured from that hour.
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19 Then the disciples came to Jesus privately, and said, “Why weren’t we able to cast it out?”
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20 He said to them, “Because of your unbelief. For most certainly I tell you, if you have faith as a grain of mustard seed, you will tell this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you.
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21 But this kind doesn’t go out except by prayer and fasting.”
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22 While they were staying in Galilee, Jesus said to them, “The Son of Man is about to be delivered up into the hands of men,
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23 and they will kill him, and the third day he will be raised up.” They were exceedingly sorry.
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24 When they had come to Capernaum, those who collected the didrachma coins came to Peter, and said, “Doesn’t your teacher pay the didrachma?”
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25 He said, “Yes.” When he came into the house, Jesus anticipated him, saying, “What do you think, Simon? From whom do the kings of the earth receive toll or tribute? From their children, or from strangers?”
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26 Peter said to him, “From strangers.” Jesus said to him, “Therefore the children are exempt.
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27 But, lest we cause them to stumble, go to the sea, cast a hook, and take up the first fish that comes up. When you have opened its mouth, you will find a stater coin. Take that, and give it to them for me and you.”
What This Chapter Is Really Saying
The Transfiguration
In this chapter, Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a mountain where something extraordinary happens. His appearance changes dramatically - His face shines like the sun, and His clothes become radiant white. To the disciples' amazement, Moses and Elijah appear and converse with Jesus, linking Him to the great prophets of the past.
Peter's Suggestion
Overwhelmed by the moment, Peter suggests building three tents for Jesus, Moses, and Elijah. Just as he speaks, a bright cloud envelops them, and a voice from the cloud declares Jesus as God's beloved Son, instructing them to listen to Him. This divine proclamation leaves the disciples trembling in fear.
Jesus' Comfort
Once the cloud dissipates, they find only Jesus standing before them. He reassures them, telling them not to fear, and instructs them to keep this experience to themselves until after His resurrection.
Questions About Elijah
As they descend the mountain, the disciples ask about the prophecy of Elijah's return. Jesus confirms that Elijah has indeed come, referencing John the Baptizer, who faced rejection and suffering, just as Jesus would.
Healing a Boy
When they return to the crowd, a desperate father pleads with Jesus to heal his son, who suffers from seizures. The disciples had tried and failed to help him. Jesus expresses frustration at the lack of faith but then heals the boy, emphasizing the power of belief and the necessity of prayer.
Foretelling His Death
Jesus hints at His impending death and resurrection, which deeply saddens His disciples. They are grappling with the reality of losing their teacher.
The Temple Tax
Finally, a situation arises with the temple tax collectors. When they ask Peter if Jesus pays the temple tax, Jesus anticipates Peter's worry and addresses it with a clever lesson on freedom and obligation, sending Peter to catch a fish that will provide the money needed for both of them. This moment shows Jesus' authority and provision even in mundane matters.
Why It Matters
The Glory of God
The transfiguration teaches us about the divine nature of Jesus. It's a reminder that even in our ordinary lives, we can experience extraordinary moments of God's presence.
Faith Like a Mustard Seed
When the disciples struggled to perform a miracle, Jesus emphasized faith. He pointed out that even a tiny amount of faith can achieve great things. This principle invites us to reflect on our own belief and trust in God.
The Importance of Prayer
Jesus highlighted that certain challenges require dedicated prayer and fasting. This encourages us to engage deeply with our faith practices, ensuring we rely on God in all circumstances.
As you reflect on these lessons, consider finding a supportive community where you can explore your faith further. Find a church near you with Sancta, and connect with others on this journey of growth.
Coming Up Next: Matthew 18
In the next part of our journey through Matthew 18, we'll delve into themes of humility, forgiveness, and the importance of community in the Kingdom of Heaven. Join us as we explore these powerful teachings!