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The view is spectacular from the mountaintop and arguably the most incredible place to behold the glory of God in creation. I have climbed several mountains, and more than the view, I enjoy the solitude. Not many people experience the summit. Jesus modeled intentional discipleship by taking Peter, James, and John to a high mountain (probably Mt. Hermon - 9,000 feet) to pray and perhaps rest (Luke 9:28).
The disciples fell asleep and awoke to a glorious and dramatic sight (v.32). "And Jesus was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became white as light" (Matthew 17:2). The Greek word for transfigured [metamorphoō] depicts an indescribable change in bodily form. Jesus took on a radiant glory that the disciples had never seen before. The glory of God was beaming out of Him as bright as the sun. (I don't recommend staring at the sun; if you do, it will blind you.) Then Elijah and Moses appeared, discussing Jesus's departure or death that He was about to undertake in Jerusalem (Luke 9:31).
The Gospel of Mark records that "Peter didn't know what to say," and he was "terrified" (9:6). But that didn't stop Peter from sticking his foot in his mouth. It seems that Peter wanted to honor Jesus, Elijah, and Moses, but God interrupted him with a rebuke. God cut Peter off to say three things: (1) Jesus is His cherished Son. (2) He takes great pleasure in Jesus. (3) Hear Jesus! The Greek word for hear is ἀκούω, which means to pay close attention and obey; to follow close. God places Jesus on the pedestal, not Moses or Elijah! He instructs the disciples to observe His Son and respond in complete conformity to Jesus. Hearing Jesus is synonymous with obedience.
How important is hearing Jesus? God showed up, shut Peter down, spoke out of a cloud, and glorified Jesus. The most significant accomplishment wasn't building another monument, honoring the prophets, erecting a worship facility, or starting a new movement. God pointed them to Jesus and obedience to whatever He told them. Jesus instructs his followers to make more followers of Him (Matthew 28:18-20). How are you intentionally hearing and obeying Jesus every day? Read Matthew 17:1-8 and answer these seven questions for reflection and response:
- Is Jesus your beloved [most loved]?
- Are you completely pleased/satisfied in Jesus alone?
- Are you ascribing glory and honoring [platforming] Jesus?
- How do you intentionally hear Jesus? Do you have a daily appointment to hear Him?
- Is the noise of life louder than the voice of Jesus?
- Have you heard the voice of Jesus call you to salvation?
- What has God instructed you to hear [from Jesus]?
We do not hear by accident; we must tune in and intently listen to what Jesus commands. Lord, help us to prioritize seeking and beholding Jesus! Help us remember to glorify you in all we do as you are most glorified when we hear Jesus and fully devote ourselves to Him!
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