Matthew 17:9a, 10-13
Chapter 17
9
And as they came down the mountain, Jesus commanded them not to tell anyone what they had seen until the Son of Man is raised from the dead.
10
The disciples asked him, “Why do the teachers of the law say that Elijah must come first?”
11
Jesus answered, “So it is: first comes Elijah; and he will restore all things.
12
But I tell you, Elijah has already come and they did not recognize him; and they treated him as they pleased. And they will also make the Son of Man suffer.”
13
Then the disciples understood that Jesus was referring to John the Baptist.
Commentaries
Transfiguration of Jesus.
The disciples feel discouraged after hearing Jesus’ announcement of his passion and understanding the consequences of following him. The transfiguration serves as a message of encouragement because it reveals Jesus’ glory and points to his victory on the cross. In this account, we see a full view of who Jesus is. Through him, God’s glory is shown; he is truly the Messiah Israel has waited for and is also the Son of God. This presentation is meant for the disciples who are with him and, in the evangelist’s view, for everyone reading the Gospel. Its goal is to strengthen the disciples’ faith in Jesus by helping them see his victory over death; thus, they can face all the challenges of being his followers.