Meaning of Matthew 17:2

The Transfiguration of Jesus, as described in Matthew 17:2, is a pivotal event where Jesus’ divine glory is revealed to three of his disciples—Peter, James, and John—on a mountain. This extraordinary transformation, where His face shone like the sun and His garments became dazzlingly white, serves as a powerful affirmation of Jesus' identity as the Son of God, a preview of His future glory, and a confirmation of His authority over the Law and the Prophets, represented by the appearance of Moses and Elijah. It is a moment of profound theological significance, intended to strengthen the faith of the disciples in the face of the impending suffering and death of Jesus.

Context and Background

This event occurs shortly after Peter’s confession of Jesus as the Christ, the Son of the living God (Matthew 16:16), and Jesus’ first prediction of His coming suffering and death (Matthew 16:21). The disciples were still grappling with Jesus’ Messianic claims and the unexpected prospect of a suffering Messiah. The Transfiguration takes place about six days after Jesus’ discourse on discipleship, which included the promise that some standing there would not taste death until they saw the Son of Man coming in His kingdom (Matthew 16:28). This mountain-top experience provides a glimpse of that kingdom glory and reinforces the disciples' understanding of Jesus’ true nature.

Key Themes and Messages

• Divine Glory Revealed: The shining face and brilliant clothes are outward manifestations of Jesus’ inherent divine glory, which was temporarily veiled during His earthly ministry. This event peels back that veil, offering a glimpse of His true, celestial radiance.
• Affirmation of Sonship: The voice from heaven declaring, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased" (Matthew 17:5), directly confirms Jesus’ unique relationship with God the Father, echoing His baptism (Matthew 3:17).
• Continuity with Old Testament Faith: The appearance of Moses (representing the Law) and Elijah (representing the Prophets) alongside Jesus signifies that He is the fulfillment of the Old Covenant. Their conversation with Jesus about His “exodus” (His impending death and resurrection) underscores that His mission is the culmination of God’s redemptive plan.
• Strengthening Disciples' Faith: This experience was designed to prepare the disciples for the shock of the crucifixion. Seeing Jesus in His glorified state would help them to understand that His suffering was not a defeat but a necessary part of His divine mission, leading to ultimate victory.

Spiritual Significance and Application

The Transfiguration offers believers a glimpse of the glorious future awaiting those who follow Christ. It reminds us that the present suffering and challenges of life are temporary, and that true glory lies in communion with God. For disciples today, it is an encouragement to persevere in faith, knowing that Jesus is indeed divine and that His promises of future glory are sure. It also calls us to listen to Jesus above all else, as indicated by God’s command, "Listen to him!" (Matthew 17:5).

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

The Transfiguration is a crucial link between Jesus’ earthly ministry and His heavenly reign. It foreshadows His resurrection glory and His eventual return in power and majesty. It demonstrates that Jesus is the central figure of biblical history, the one to whom the Law and the Prophets bear witness. This event is a testament to the unfolding of God's redemptive plan, from the Old Covenant to the New Covenant established through Jesus Christ.

Analogies

One analogy for the Transfiguration is like seeing a magnificent, fully built palace that has been temporarily hidden behind scaffolding and construction materials. The scaffolding (Jesus' human form and earthly ministry) is essential for the work, but the Transfiguration reveals the true, breathtaking splendor of the finished structure (His divine glory). Another analogy is a powerful king who, for strategic reasons, walks among his people in plain clothes. However, on a special occasion, he appears in his full royal regalia, reminding everyone of his true authority and majesty.

Relation to Other Verses

• Matthew 16:28: Jesus’ promise that some would see the Son of Man coming in His kingdom is fulfilled in the Transfiguration.
• Mark 9:2-10 and Luke 9:28-36: These parallel accounts provide further details and reinforce the significance of the event.
• John 1:14: "The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth." This verse speaks to the divine glory that was present in Jesus, and the Transfiguration is a direct manifestation of it.
• Philippians 2:5-11: This passage describes Jesus’ humility in taking on human form but also His exaltation to the highest name. The Transfiguration shows this inherent exaltation.
• 2 Peter 1:16-18: Peter himself refers back to the Transfiguration, calling it a demonstration of Christ’s power and majesty, and a confirmation of the prophetic word.