“ .. And was transfigured before them: and His face did shine as the sun.” Matthew 17:1-8 KJV

“…And He was transfigured before them; and His face shone like the sun…” Matthew 17:2 NASB

This was not reflected glory; it was inherent glory that shined from His face. The difference is between the sun – a source, and the moon – a reflector. James refers to Him (his half-brother) as The Lord of Glory. Some translations give it as The Glory, or The Glorious One.

In earthly affairs, surroundings, offices, pageantry and the like confer glory upon men. But with Christ it is far different. He is Himself the glory.

Notice the great contrast with Moses and Elijah:

  • Moses – a man who said it is too much; a man who had an unseen death by the kiss of God; a man who was a redeemer but mourned by the nation.
  • Elijah – a man who said, “It is enough.” a man who did not see death but had a glorious rapture.

Questions to Consider:

  1. What are the distinct differences in Matthew’s account as compared to Mark and Luke?
  2. Why do you think it emphasizes His face and “like the sun” in Matthew?
  3. Peter had his calendar wrong. He was at the feast of Tabernacles in the 7th month; Christ was thinking Passover at the 1st month. Was Peter’s error putting Christ on the same level as Moses and Elijah, or was it rushing to the kingdom and glory before the cross?
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