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The Transfiguration: What Moses and Elijah Discussed with Jesus

An in-depth study into the profound conversation between Jesus, Moses, and Elijah on the Mount of Transfiguration, exploring its significance for understanding Jesus' divine mission and the fulfillment of God's eternal plan.

1. The Setting and Significance of the Transfiguration

1.1 The Mountain of Prayer and Revelation

Verses: Luke 9:28-29; Matthew 17:1-2
  • Jesus often sought solitude for prayer, demonstrating His humanity and dependence on the Father (who He is).
  • The mountain top is a place of divine encounter and revelation in scripture, such as Mount Sinai.
  • The Transfiguration was a glimpse of Jesus' divine glory, confirming His true identity.

1.2 The Appearance of Moses and Elijah

Verses: Luke 9:30; Matthew 17:3
  • Moses represents the Law, given by God through him to Israel.
  • Elijah represents the Prophets, speaking God's word and performing mighty works.
  • Their appearance signifies the continuity and culmination of God's plan through the ages, all pointing to Jesus.

2. The Identity of Jesus: God Manifest in Flesh

2.1 Jesus' Divine Glory Revealed

Verses: Matthew 17:2; Mark 9:3; Luke 9:29
  • His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became dazzling white, revealing His inherent divine nature.
  • This was not merely a human being, but God Himself veiled in flesh, allowing humanity to behold His glory.
  • The disciples witnessed a manifestation of the Creator's glory in human form.

2.2 Moses and Elijah Ministering to God Incarnate

Verses: Luke 9:30-31
  • The greatest figures of the Old Covenant were seen conversing with Jesus, acknowledging His supreme authority.
  • They were not equals, but servants speaking with their Lord, who is the fulfillment of all they represented.
  • This interaction underscores Jesus' unique position as the one God, to whom all Law and Prophets point.

3. The Subject of Their Conversation: Jesus' Departure (Exodus/Decease)

3.1 Discussing His 'Exodus' in Jerusalem

Verses: Luke 9:31
  • The Greek word 'exodos' (departure) refers to His impending death, resurrection, and ascension.
  • This was the central purpose of Jesus' incarnation: to accomplish redemption for humanity.
  • Moses and Elijah understood the divine necessity of His sacrifice for the salvation of mankind.

3.2 The Fulfillment of Prophecy and the Law

Verses: Isaiah 53:5-6; Daniel 9:26; Hebrews 9:22
  • Their conversation affirmed that Jesus' suffering and death were not an accident but the pre-ordained plan of God.
  • The Law (Moses) required a perfect sacrifice, and the Prophets (Elijah) foretold the suffering Messiah.
  • Jesus, as God, was the only one who could provide the perfect, atoning sacrifice for sin.

4. The Divine Affirmation and Command

4.1 The Voice from the Cloud

Verses: Matthew 17:5; Mark 9:7; Luke 9:35
  • A bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice declared, 'This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.'
  • This voice is the manifestation of the one God, affirming Jesus' unique relationship and identity as the Son.
  • The Father is not a separate entity, but the divine Spirit speaking through a manifestation of His presence.

4.2 'Hear Him!' - The New Covenant Authority

Verses: Matthew 17:5; Deuteronomy 18:15; Acts 3:22-23
  • The command to 'Hear Him!' signifies that Jesus is the ultimate authority, superseding Moses and Elijah.
  • He is the Prophet like Moses, to whom all must listen and obey for salvation.
  • This command establishes Jesus as the sole source of truth and the foundation of the New Covenant.