When Jesus asked the disciples, “Who do you say I am?” the Holy Spirit was at work revealing to them Jesus’ Messianic mandate. Peter’s answer, “God’s Messiah” was a revelation from God (Matthew 16:17).
The things of God (1Corinthians 2:10) – known only to Him – are revealed to His people. We are not able to “peek” into God’s things.
There was another aspect of Jesus’ Messianic mandate that needed to be revealed. “And he said, “The Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, and he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life” (Luke 9:22).
The Messianic mandate included rejection, suffering, death & resurrection.
Today’s narrative (Luke 9:28-36) brings new revelations regarding Jesus and His work. They may not be new for us, but they were new for the disciples at that time. Yet, even today, God’s Spirit will use His word to work in us a spiritual growth for His glory and our benefit.
Jesus promised “some” of His disciples that they will see the kingdom of God before they died. The mountain top event is the fulfilment of that promise. The question then is: “In what way, the mountain top event is another manifestation of God’s kingdom on earth?” The manifestation of God’s kingdom in the mountain top event is seen in:
The change in appearance of Jesus: His face changed and His clothes became “bright as a flash of lightning” – an intrusion into our reality!
The presence of Moses and Elijah: What were they doing there? They were dead…but by the looks of it – weren’t!!
The voice from heaven…”Am I dreaming…pinch me…” The disciples were witnessing a divine event: the cloud, the voice as in (Exodus 19:16).
God’s kingdom is more than what we can see, hear, smell, taste, etc.
While the mountain top event was frightening (in a sense) Peter could say, “Master, it is good for us to be here…”
May you experience God’s presence!