Transfiguration

Definition

Transfiguration refers to a significant event in the New Testament where Jesus is transformed in appearance before three of his disciples—Peter, James, and John—on a mountain. This moment reveals Jesus' divine glory and confirms his identity as the Son of God, bridging the human and divine aspects of his nature. The event is crucial for understanding how Jesus embodies both God’s glory and human experience, providing insight into his dual identity as both fully divine and fully human.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Transfiguration is described in three synoptic gospels: Matthew (17:1-9), Mark (9:2-8), and Luke (9:28-36), highlighting its importance in early Christian narratives.
2. During the Transfiguration, Jesus' face shone like the sun, and his clothes became dazzling white, symbolizing his divine nature.
3. Moses and Elijah appeared alongside Jesus during the event, representing the Law and the Prophets, which emphasizes Jesus' fulfillment of both.
4. The voice of God is heard during the Transfiguration, affirming Jesus as His beloved Son and instructing the disciples to listen to him, reinforcing his authority.
5. The event occurs shortly before Jesus' Passion, serving as a moment of reassurance for the disciples regarding Jesus’ true identity amid impending suffering.

Review Questions

• How does the Transfiguration reveal the dual nature of Jesus as both divine and human?
  • The Transfiguration shows Jesus' dual nature through his transformation in appearance, where his divine glory shines forth while still being present among his human disciples. This event highlights that while Jesus lived an earthly life, he also possesses a divine identity that connects him with God. The appearance of Moses and Elijah alongside him underscores this connection to both the Law and the Prophets, affirming that he is not just a great teacher but also God's Son.
• Discuss the significance of the voice from heaven during the Transfiguration in relation to Jesus' identity.
  • The voice from heaven during the Transfiguration is significant because it explicitly identifies Jesus as God's beloved Son and commands the disciples to listen to him. This divine endorsement confirms Jesus' authority and reinforces his unique relationship with God. It serves as a pivotal moment for the disciples, preparing them to understand Jesus' mission and identity more deeply as they face challenges ahead in their journey with him.
• Evaluate how the event of Transfiguration serves as a turning point for both Jesus and his disciples in their understanding of his mission.
  • The Transfiguration acts as a critical turning point for both Jesus and his disciples by providing a clear revelation of Jesus' divine nature just before he embarks on his journey toward suffering and death. For Jesus, it affirms his purpose and divine authority amidst doubt; for the disciples, it deepens their understanding of who he is beyond their expectations. This moment serves to strengthen their faith as they are confronted with imminent challenges, highlighting that true understanding comes through recognizing Jesus’ dual role as Savior and Son of God.

Related terms

Incarnation: The Christian belief that God became flesh in the person of Jesus Christ, embodying both divine and human natures.

Divinity: The state of being divine or god-like, which in Christianity refers to the nature and attributes of God.

Epiphany: A moment of sudden revelation or insight, often used in Christianity to describe the manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles, particularly through events like the Transfiguration.