You know, I’m always amazed when I read a new verse from the Bible.
No matter if it’s from the New Testament like this chapter from Mark, or Scriptures from the Old Testament like the sun standing still, God reveals His Word to us.
A Quick Bible History Lesson from the Configuration Miracle..
The three disciples; Peter, James and John were witness to Christ’s glory during this event. And, all three Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark & Luke) record the miracle.
When doing some research, I found that the Feast of the Transfiguration is celebrated by Eastern Orthodox, Roman Catholic and Anglican churches. And yes, this is considered one of the greatest miracles of Jesus.
The greatest miracles of the New Testament include:
- The baptism of Christ by John the Baptist.
- And, of course the greatest miracle remains (and always will)..
- the crucifixion
- resurrection
- and ascension of Christ so that we can be saved.
So, let’s take a look at the transfiguration of Jesus in Mark 9.
Learn how the disciples reacted to the situation. Finally, we discover how it can help empower our faith in Jesus.
When Jesus was transfigured the disciples, Peter, James and John had a tough time believing as we sometimes do.
They only had the Old Testament – and not the knowledge we have of the risen Christ.
So, what is our excuse for not believing?
Mark 9: Jesus is Transfigured on the Mountain – The Disciples React
“Six days later, Jesus took with Him Peter and James and John, and brought them up on a high mountain by themselves.
And He was transfigured before them; and His garments became radiant and exceedingly white, as no launderer on earth can whiten them.
Elijah appeared to them along with Moses; and they were talking with Jesus.
Peter said to Jesus, “Rabbi, it is good for us to be here; let us make three tabernacles, one for You, and one for Moses, and one for Elijah.”
For he did not know what to answer; for they became terrified.
Then a cloud formed, overshadowing them, and a voice came out of the cloud, “This is My beloved Son, listen to Him!”
All at once they looked around and saw no one with them anymore, except Jesus alone.
As they were coming down from the mountain, He gave them orders not to relate to anyone what they had seen, until the Son of Man rose from the dead.
They seized upon that statement, discussing with one another what rising from the dead meant.
They asked Him, saying, “Why is it that the scribes say that Elijah must come first?”
And He said to them, “Elijah does first come and restore all things.
And yet how is it written of the Son of Man that He will suffer many things and be treated with contempt?
But I say to you that Elijah has indeed come, and they did to him whatever they wished, just as it is written of him.” – Mark 9:2-13 NASB
The transfiguration of Christ – Elijah & Moses
Jesus’ meeting with Elijah and Moses shows fulfillment of the Old Testament. Elijah was one of the greatest Prophets of the Bible. And, Moses dealt with the law.
This transfiguration shows Jesus in authority over both, with God proclaiming that Jesus is the Son of God.
To Whom are We Listening?
We constantly seek advice and guidance from many sources;
- parents
- teachers
- boss
- spouse, etc.
But, the one who can give us true advice and guidance in the way we live our lives is Christ.
Elijah’s Return?
In verses 11 and 12, Jesus states that Elijah has come in the form of John the Baptist (Matthew 17:11-13), who was the fore teller of Christ Himself.
Jesus Had to Die
The disciples still could not understand why Jesus had to suffer and die on the cross.
The Bible plainly tells us of His death and resurrection for our sins. We have the benefit of those Synoptic Gospels to give us the full story.
But, the disciples only had access to the Old Testament. So, they would only understand after Jesus died and rose from the grave.
Lack of Faith
The reading today covered a very important moment in the story of Christ. And, we can learn several lessons about what was to come.
But, the most important thing to remember is; Christ knew exactly what was to come. The transfiguration showed those three disciples who He really was.
Sadly, Peter and the other disciples did not have the power to see into the future.
So, they sometimes doubted.
We can link together how the transfiguration follows the confession of Peter when he admitted “You are the Christ.” in Matthew 16:16.
Throughout the New Testament, Jesus tells us clearly who He is.
That’s why we cannot use the same excuse for not believing – or lack of faith. As Paul Harvey used to say: “Now you know the rest of the story.”
So, let’s make God’s Word a part of our lives every day so that we can live a life which comes closer to glorifying God.
Love in Christ
– Bob
If you would like to discover more about how to receive the love and life-changing experience of Jesus Christ, please take a moment to go here.