What if you could see Jesus as He truly is? In Matthew 17, three disciples experience a moment that forever changes how they understand Christ. The transfiguration of Jesus reveals His divine glory and answers a vital question for every believer: Who is Jesus?
This lesson from Matthew tells what happened on the mountain and why it still matters today. The passage comes at a turning point in the Gospel, right after Peter confesses Jesus as the Messiah and just before Jesus speaks openly about His coming death.
Jesus Is Transfigured in the Gospel of Matthew
The Gospel of Matthew shows that Jesus is more than a teacher or prophet. In Matthew 17, God reveals Christ’s true nature to Peter, James, and John.
This moment builds directly on earlier events. Peter had already declared Jesus to be the Messiah (read more here). Soon after, Jesus began preparing His disciples for His suffering and death (see this lesson).
The transfiguration confirms that Jesus willingly goes to the cross as the Son of God.
What happened at the transfiguration of Jesus?
Matthew tells us that Jesus led Peter, James, and John up a high mountain, away from everyone else.
“Six days later Jesus took with Him Peter and James and John his brother, and led them up on a high mountain by themselves.”
— Matthew 17:1
Then something extraordinary happened.
“And He was transfigured before them; and His face shone like the sun, and His garments became as white as light.”
— Matthew 17:2
Jesus did not change into something new. Instead, His true glory became visible. The disciples saw Him as He truly is.
Moses and Elijah Appear
“And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, talking with Him.”
— Matthew 17:3
Moses represents the Law. Elijah represents the Prophets. Their presence confirms that Jesus fulfills everything God promised in Scripture.
As always, Peter reacted quickly, speaking before he fully understood the moment.
“Lord, it is good for us to be here; if You wish, I will make three tabernacles here.”
— Matthew 17:4
God the Father Speaks
Before Peter could finish speaking, God interrupted.
“This is My beloved Son, with whom I am well-pleased; listen to Him!”
— Matthew 17:5
God leaves no room for confusion. Jesus stands above Moses and Elijah. He is God’s Son, and He alone deserves our full attention.
Fear and Comfort on the Mountain
“When the disciples heard this, they fell face down to the ground and were terrified.”
— Matthew 17:6
Jesus immediately responded with compassion.
“And Jesus came to them and touched them and said, ‘Get up, and do not be afraid.’”
— Matthew 17:7
When the disciples looked up, they saw only Jesus.
“And lifting up their eyes, they saw no one except Jesus Himself alone.”
— Matthew 17:8
This reading sends a clear message. The Law and the Prophets point to Christ, but salvation comes through Him alone.
A Glimpse of Heaven and a Coming Cross
As they walked down the mountain, Jesus told the disciples to keep silent about what they had seen.
“Tell the vision to no one until the Son of Man has risen from the dead.”
— Matthew 17:9
The disciples then asked about Elijah.
“Elijah is coming and will restore all things; but I say to you that Elijah already came.”
— Matthew 17:11–12
Jesus referred to John the Baptist. He also reminded them that suffering still lay ahead.
“So also the Son of Man is going to suffer at their hands.”
— Matthew 17:12
Who Is Jesus—and Why This Matters
The transfiguration answers one of the most important questions in Scripture. Jesus is the Son of God.
How does this answer help us? When we understand who Christ is, our response changes. We
- move from curiosity to worship,
- listen to Him,
- and we follow Him.
To learn more and grow in faith, visit Making Christ Known.
If you would like to learn how to receive the love and life-changing gift of Jesus Christ, please take a moment to go here and read this verse in John.
Love in Christ,
Bob
*Verses from New American Standard Bible (NASB).
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