Study 23
They see His glory
Read Mark 9v2-13
This passage is known as the transfiguration of Jesus.
Jesus’ glory
'Transfiguration' means a changing of appearance. As Jesus had walked around Israel nothing of his glory could be seen by the human eye. But now before these privileged men it was clear that He was perfect and that He was God's son. His divine nature began to shine through even His clothes, it was a terrific sight.
Moses represents the law in the Old Testament and Elijah represents the
prophets - both pointed to Christ. Having done their work they can withdraw and leave Him at the centre of the stage.
The voice in verse 7 reminds us of Jesus' baptism where God the Father showed that He was pleased with His Son as He stood with sinners. Here
the Father shows He is pleased with Jesus himself.
These disciples saw Jesus' glory but they cannot rely on witnessing spectacular things alone. They are commanded to hear Him because He is God and He alone has the truth.
After all the excitement they are told to wait until Jesus has risen from the dead before telling anybody of what has occurred. Why? Because the full beauty and glory of Jesus cannot be understood unless we first understand His death and His resurrection.
The bible is true
Later Peter tells the churches that he, with others, was an 'eye-witness' of the majesty of Christ and actually 'heard' the voice of God coming from heaven. (2 Peter 1:16).
He uses this to prove that the bible relates actual historical events and has been written by men inspired by God.
It is crucial for us today to take the bible seriously. Here is God's book; it is the only reliable book which tells you the truth about God, salvation, sin, man and the future. Treasure it!
Time to think
- Is the Bible historical?
- Is Jesus historical?
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