Luke 9:28-45
Q.1. What were the three disciples supposed to learn from the Transfiguration of Jesus? – (Lk.9:28-36)
The disciples, especially Peter, had just declared that Jesus was the promised Messiah (c.f. Lk.9:20). Eight days later, the true identity of Jesus was authenticated – while He was praying, the appearance of His face became different, and His clothing became white and gleaming (Lk.9:29). This was an out-of-this-world experience that was augmented by the appearance of two great patriarchs, Moses, and Elijah (Lk.9:30). They – were speaking about His departure (Greek – exodos) which He was about to accomplish at Jerusalem (Lk.9:30-31). They identified the place, and the need for a perfect once-for-all sacrifice that would complete all the Old Testament sacrifices. (c.f. Heb.9:11-14). This supported the claims by Jesus that He was destined to suffer, die, and after three days rise again. Peter and his companions – … saw His glory and the two men standing with Him (Lk.9:32). Completely overcome, Peter suggested that they should build three structures to commemorate the experience – not realizing what he was saying (Lk.9:33).
Q.2. How did the Father confirm the Sonship of Jesus? How did the disciples react to this incredible experience? – (Lk.9:34-36)
The incident was shrouded in a cloud that frightened the disciples (Lk.9:34). Out of the thick fog the voice of the Father declared –This is My Son, whom I have chosen: LISTEN TO HIM (Lk.9:35). The authoritative voice of God identified Jesus as His chosen One. Above and beyond all others (including Moses and Elijah), they were to listen to Jesus, and He was to be the focus of their attention. Peter and his companions were so overawed, that they – … kept this to themselves and told no one at that time what they had seen (Lk.9:36). Later, Peter would write about this meeting on the mountain – 16 … we were eyewitnesses of His majesty. 17 For when He received honour and glory from God the Father, such an utterance as this was made to Him by the Majestic Glory, “This is My beloved Son with whom I am well-pleased”– 18 and we ourselves heard this utterance made from heaven when we were with Him on the holy mountain (2 Pet. 1:16-18). Neither Peter, James, nor John would have had doubts about Jesus later in life (c.f. Jn.20:30-31; 2 Pet.1:16-18; 1 Jn.1:1-3).
Q.3. How did the impotence of the disciples highlight the authority of Christ? Did the disciples understand the predictions of His sufferings? – (Lk.9:37-45)
Jesus had sent out the Twelve with authority over demons (c.f. Luke 9:1), but there was much they did not understand about the domain of darkness. Consequently, they were powerless to help the man who brought his demon possessed son to Jesus (Lk.9:37-40). Jesus expressed His frustration at their failure because it was through their prayerlessness that they lacked the faith to cast out the demon (Lk.9:41 c.f. Mk.9:28-29). Jesus was in command. He cast out the demon and restored the boy to his father (Lk.9:42-43). While everyone marvelled at this display of power, Jesus declared – Let these words sink into your ears, for the Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men (Lk.9:44). However, it did not seem possible to the disciples that One with such power would soon die (Lk.9:45).