20100110
In Luke 9:27-36, we have a record of three disciples, Peter, James and John seeing Jesus transfigured on a high mountain giving them a glimpse of the glory of Jesus Christ. There appeared Elijah and Moses in glory, talking to Jesus. They spoke of Jesus’ departure from this world which was to be fulfilled soon in Jerusalem. God’s voice from the clouds attested that Jesus is God’s beloved Son, and the disciples need to listen to Him. This is a true testimony that Jesus Christ, the Son of Man is truly the Son of God. The Jewish law requiring three witnesses to establish a matter is fulfilled – with the 3 witnesses from heaven: Moses, Elijah and the voice of God from heaven and 3 witnesses from earth: Peter, James and John (ref. Deut. 19:15).
The transfiguration was so dazzling and astonishing that it created a sense of fear and awe in Peter who suggested that they build a shelter for Jesus, Moses and Elijah. The Apostle Peter later wrote that he was an eye witness of the majesty of Christ at His transfiguration, as he testified of the power of Christ and His imminent coming again. “We did not follow cleverly invented stories when we told you about the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of His majesty” (2 Pet. 1:16). Peter saw the glorious transfigured Christ and wrote that Christ will return in glory to rule the world.
Jesus Christ is so compelling and so significant to mankind because only He alone can solve the world’s problems. He is the brightness of God’s glory and the express, perfect image of God’s nature. He continues to uphold all things including this present world by the word of His power (Heb 1:3). He purged our sins and sat down at the right hand of God, in victory. He solved the issue of sin and separation from the Holy Creator God. In this world, we will have tribulations, sorrows and trials, but we can be of good cheer because Christ has overcome the world. Jesus is the way to God, the truth of God and the life in God (ref. Jn. 14:6). Every person must listen to Jesus, believe in Him and be transformed to live for God’s glory. “The love of Christ compels us. He died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again” (2 Cor. 5:14, 15).
