Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a high mountain where He is transfigured before them. His face shines like the sun, and His clothes become white as light. Moses and Elijah appear, talking with Jesus. A bright cloud overshadows them, and a voice from the cloud declares, 'This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.'
Theological significance
The Transfiguration reveals Jesus' divine glory and affirms His identity as the Son of God. It connects the Law (Moses) and the Prophets (Elijah) with the fulfillment in Christ. The voice from heaven emphasizes the authority of Jesus and the necessity of listening to Him.
In the broader story
This event foreshadows Jesus' resurrection glory and affirms His role in God's redemptive plan. It also echoes God's affirmation of Jesus at His baptism (Matthew 3:17).
A man approaches Jesus, pleading for the healing of his son who is possessed by a demon. The disciples were unable to cast it out. Jesus rebukes the demon, and it comes out of the boy, who is healed instantly.
Theological significance
This event highlights Jesus' authority over demonic forces and the necessity of faith. Jesus' rebuke of the disciples for their little faith underscores the importance of trust in God's power.
In the broader story
The healing demonstrates the in-breaking of God's kingdom through Jesus' ministry, showcasing His power over evil and His compassion for those afflicted.
Jesus tells His disciples that He will be delivered into the hands of men, killed, and raised on the third day. The disciples are greatly distressed by this prediction.
Theological significance
This prediction underscores the centrality of Jesus' death and resurrection in God's redemptive plan. It highlights Jesus' foreknowledge and willingness to fulfill His mission.
In the broader story
This is the second prediction of Jesus' passion, reinforcing the necessity of His sacrificial death and victorious resurrection for the salvation of humanity.
When questioned about the temple tax, Jesus instructs Peter to catch a fish, which will have a coin in its mouth to pay the tax for both of them. This miracle demonstrates Jesus' knowledge and provision.
Theological significance
This event illustrates Jesus' sovereignty over creation and His provision for His followers. It also reflects His humility and submission to earthly authorities, despite His divine sonship.
In the broader story
The miracle underscores Jesus' identity as the Son of God who provides for His people, paralleling God's provision throughout the Old Testament.
In the order the chapter tells them. The corpus records sequence, not dates — biblical chronology is contested, and this does not take a position on it.