Johan SlabbertPhoto: Marcus Woodbridge
Matthew 16:28 “Truly, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the Son of Man coming in his kingdom.”
How would Jesus validate his statement that “the Son of Man will come with his angels in the glory of his Father”? He would give some of his disciples a glimpse of that future reality. Jesus promised that some with him there on the mountain would not see death until they had seen the Son of Man coming in his kingdom.
A Glimpse of Glory
Countless believers throughout history have longed to see the full manifestation of Christ’s kingdom. Many went to the grave waiting, their hope fixed on the day of heavenly consummation. But Jesus, in his mercy and wisdom, would grant a foretaste of this glory to three of his disciples, namely Peter, James and John.
Why would he do that? Because these men would be the future leaders of the church, tasked with proclaiming Christ’s gospel to the world. They needed something more than doctrine; they needed a tangible, unforgettable vision of the glory to come. This glimpse, indelibly etched in their minds, would fortify them through persecution and trial, enabling them to speak with unwavering conviction about the hope of Christ’s return.
Eyewitnesses of His Majesty
Later, Peter, reflecting on this moment, writes:
“For we did not follow cleverly devised myths when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty. For when he received honour and glory from God the Father… we ourselves heard this very voice borne from heaven, for we were with him on the holy mountain” (2 Peter 1:16-18).
This was no ordinary experience. It was a supernatural encounter with the glorified Christ, affirming his identity and mission. John echoes this same sentiment in his Revelation, vividly describing the ultimate consummation when the Lamb receives his bride:
“Let us rejoice and exult and give him the glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and his Bride has made herself ready” (Revelation 19:7).
What would be the purpose of such a vision? Here are three important reasons.
- To Strengthen the Church
The transfiguration gave the disciples, and through them the church, a vision of hope. It was not just about the cross, it was about the resurrection, the ascension, and the ultimate return of Christ. This vision assured them that Jesus is who he claims to be: the glorious Son of Man from Daniel’s prophecy, who will one day reign over all creation.
- To Vindicate Christ’s Mission
Jesus’ suffering and death did not signify the end of the story. The transfiguration pointed forward to his victory and exaltation, silencing any doubt about his identity and purpose. As Revelation 15:3-4 proclaims, his deeds are “great and marvellous”, his ways “just and true”, and one day, “all nations will come and worship before [him].”
- To Assure Us of His Return
While the disciples received a preview of Christ’s kingdom on the mountaintop, the ultimate fulfilment will occur on his return. This day will bring vindication for Christ and his followers, the punishment of evil, and the establishment of his visible reign.
Living in the Light of the Vision
For believers today, this vision offers profound hope. Though the world may seem dark and the church may face opposition, Christ’s return is certain. The Lamb will triumph, and his Bride, the church, will be united with him in glory.
The transfiguration is more than a historical event; it is a call to live with expectation and readiness. The heavenly consummation will reveal the fullness of Christ’s kingdom, a reality far surpassing anything we can imagine.
Are you living with this anticipation? Like Peter, James and John, let the promise of glory inspire your faith, embolden your witness, and deepen your commitment to the mission of Christ.
For the day is coming when the Son of Man will appear, and his kingdom will be revealed in all its splendour.
“Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb” (Revelation 19:9).
Looking Ahead
As we continue, we will explore whether this was not merely some form of illusion, a clever mind trick that Jesus played on his adoring and devoted disciples.
Call to Action
What would Jesus need to do to convince the leaders of the future church?
Which disciples would Jesus select to reveal it to? Why not all of them?
How are you convinced that these men saw what they claimed they saw?
How does this compare with Moses’ encounter with God on Mount Sinai? Exodus 33:18-19; 34:29