Transfiguration - Matthew 17:1-8

Matthew 17:1-8 ESV 

And after six days Jesus took with him Peter and James, and John his brother, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became white as light. And behold, there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him. And Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good that we are here. If you wish, I will make three tents here, one for you and one for Moses and one for Elijah.” He was still speaking when, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.” When the disciples heard this, they fell on their faces and were terrified. But Jesus came and touched them, saying, “Rise, and have no fear.” And when they lifted up their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus only.

After six days. This may remind us of the six days of creation as told in Genesis. On the seventh day God rested. This can serve as a preview of our coming Sabbath rest, even as we have a foretaste of that blessed state with presence of the Holy Spirit. 

The transfiguration allowed the disciples to glimpse the ultimate fulfillment of God's purpose for man and creation. The light called forth in the beginning has been given the shape of a man and is revealed. We will follow Christ in transfiguration and see that we will be like Him. 

The meeting with these two men with Jesus on the Mount of Transfiguration, which ends with only Jesus present, serves to confirm that Jesus is the end, just as He is the beginning. Elijah and Moses disappear with the fulfillment of the light before the three disciples. 

Moses led the Israelites to the promised land, but was unable to lead them across the Jordan river into the journey's end. He parted the Red Sea when he obeyed the Lord, but was stopped by a river after he disobeyed. Israel has returned to the promised land, but has not been able to take full possession. 

Elijah represents the Church, taken into heaven to be with God. The church does not inherit the promised land. This is reserved for Israel. The Church inherits God. He is our portion and reward. We have become one with God even as we wait for His return. 

One day He will return from the mountain of God to dwell on earth with His Bride on the throne of David. Heaven and earth will be joined.