Day 41: March 8

Matthew 17:1-13

SCRIPTURE HIGHLIGHT
OBSERVATION
⬆️ Jesus was shown in His glory, accompanied by Moses and Elijah to signify the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets. This implies that death cannot diminish the glory that awaits. Moses and Elijah, who are glorified, exemplify how serving God may lead to facing death but ultimately leads to glory (vv. 1-3).

⬇️ Peter is expecting power and dominion on this earth (v. 4). Peter, though made a profound confession of faith among the disciples (Matthew 16:16), still seems to lack a proper understanding of Jesus' true messiahship and the reality of his reign. He continues to expect Jesus to establish a worldly kingdom and rule because he misunderstood Jesus' statement about "some witnessing the Son of Man coming in his kingdom before tasting death" about a week prior (Matthew 16:28).

⬆️ Jesus is the Son of God, Jesus is loved by the Father and pleasing to the Father, and Jesus must be obeyed (v. 5).

⬆️ On this mountain, it was like what happened to Israel on Mount Sinai. In Exodus (19-24), God's glory was on top of the mountain when Moses got the Law. Because God was there, Moses' face glowed with His glory. God spoke to make sure it was His Law. People heard God's voice but didn't see Him, confirming that the Law was from God and had to be followed (Deut. 4). Unlike the Israelites of the Old Testament, now they behold with their own eyes the glory of Jesus, who is truly God. John describes Jesus as the Word who was with God and was God, became flesh, and dwells among us, revealing His glory (John 1:1, 14).

APPLICATION
➡️ The transfiguration account in Matthew 17:1-13 provides a powerful illustration of Jesus' divine identity and authority, as well as the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets. The presence of Moses and Elijah alongside Jesus signifies the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets in Him. As we study scripture, we recognize Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the embodiment of God's redemptive plan for humanity.

The voice from the cloud instructs the disciples to listen to Jesus, emphasizing His authority and the importance of obeying His teachings. In our study of scripture, we are called to submit ourselves to Jesus' authority and to heed His words as the ultimate guide for our lives.

When Jesus talks about His future suffering and mentions Elijah, it's like He's giving a hint about His death and resurrection. This reminds us that Jesus had to suffer and die to save us. It also shows us that following Jesus might mean facing tough times, but in the end, there will be something glorious waiting for us.

Therefore, I will do…;

• Whenever I study the Bible, I will keep in mind that Jesus is the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the embodiment of God's plan for redemption.
• In my daily life, I will prioritize obeying Jesus' teachings and following His guidance, knowing that His words are the ultimate authority for how I should live.
• When faced with decisions or challenges, I will take time to listen to what Jesus is saying to me through prayer, Scripture, and wise counsel, trusting His guidance above all else.
• When I encounter difficulties or hardships, I will remember Jesus' prediction of His own suffering and resurrection, finding comfort in the knowledge that suffering is not the end and that God can bring beauty from ashes.
• Despite the challenges I may face, I will hold onto the hope of the glorious future promised by following Jesus, knowing that He has prepared something wonderful for those who love Him.

PRAYER
🙏 Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for showing me through the story of Jesus' transfiguration that He is the fulfillment of your promises and the guide for my life. Help me to remember this truth as I study your Word each day. Please give me the strength and wisdom to obey Jesus' teachings and follow His guidance in everything I do. Let His words be my compass in navigating life's challenges and decisions. Guide me in prayer, Scripture, and seeking wise counsel, so I can hear Jesus' voice clearly amidst the noise of the world. Help me to trust His guidance above all else.    

When I face difficulties and hardships, remind me of Jesus' suffering and resurrection, and the hope it brings. Give me the courage to hold onto the hope of the glorious future you have promised to those who love and follow Jesus. In Jesus' name, Amen.