Mark 9:1-13

After speaking about the cost of following Him, Jesus turns to His disciples and says, “There are some standing here who will not taste death till they see the kingdom of God present with power” (9:1). Jesus was referring to an event which has been termed the “transfiguration.” Although many have interpreted Jesus’ words here in various ways, the best way is to understand it is that He is referencing what is about to happen to Peter, James, and John on the mountain. Of His twelve disciples, Jesus takes three with Him to the mountain to experience the kingdom of God prior to its establishment. The kingdom of God will finally be established in the future and begins when Jesus Christ returns to earth following the seven-year tribulation period (also known as the second coming of Christ). All believers will be taken from the earth prior to the seven years of judgment which is unleashed on all those who reject God. Immediately after this judgment, Jesus will establish His kingdom on earth for 1,000 years and those who have believed will reign with Him. His kingdom will be one of righteousness, goodness, and holiness. Peter, James, and John were receiving a glimpse of Jesus’ rule on earth.

With all these things in mind, let’s return to the event. When Jesus and His three disciples arrive on the mountain, Jesus is “transfigured before them” (9:2). This phrase means that He was changed in form. Mark goes on to write, “His clothes became shining, exceedingly white, like snow, such as no launderer on earth can whiten them” (9:3). They were able to see Jesus in His divine glory, as He would be during the millennial reign on earth. Elijah (an Old Testament prophet) and Moses (the recipient of God’s law) appear with Jesus, Peter, James, and John (9:4). The appearance of Elijah and Moses with Jesus implies their acceptance of Him being the Messiah. Both God’s law and the prophets pointed to a coming Messiah. Peter finally speaks up and asks if they should build tabernacles for Jesus, Elijah, and Moses (9:5). Mark records that Peter said this because he didn’t know what to say, but it probably implies that he thought Jesus’ rule would be established right away (9:6). A cloud then comes over them and God the Father says, “This is my beloved Son. Hear Him!” “Suddenly, when they had looked around, they saw no one anymore, but only Jesus with themselves” (9:8). They began their descent down the mountain and Jesus commanded them not to tell anyone until He had risen from the dead, even though they did not fully understand what He meant by coming back from the dead (9:9-10).

This event was a confirmation of a future kingdom being established and that Jesus would rule over it. All believers can look forward to this future kingdom knowing that God will return for His own and establish a righteous kingdom.

Dear God, I look forward to Your future rule on earth. May I prepare my heart now in anticipation of what is to come.