Johan SlabbertPhoto: Marcus Woodbridge
Matthew 17:6-9 "When the disciples heard this, they fell on their faces and were terrified. But Jesus came and touched them, saying, 'Rise, and have no fear.' And when they lifted up their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus only. And as they were coming down the mountain, Jesus commanded them, 'Tell no one the vision, until the Son of Man is raised from the dead.'"
"Have No Fear"
The reaction of the disciples was understandable. Having seen the vision of the transformed and glorified Jesus, seeing Moses and Elijah and then finally hearing the voice of God authenticating his Son, great terror came over them and they fell on their faces. However, Jesus came and touched them and commanded them not to fear.
The Commission: A Call to Tell
As they came down the mountain, Jesus gave the disciples a firm instruction:
"Tell no one the vision until the Son of Man is raised from the dead."
About this instruction, two things need clarification.
The Telling Must Come
While the disciples are to remain silent for a while, there will be a time for proclamation.
The resurrection of Christ would unlock their understanding and give them the courage to declare what they had witnessed.
The Power of Timing
Without the resurrection, the meaning of the transfiguration would be incomplete. The glory they had seen was intrinsically tied to the suffering and triumph of the cross.
The resurrection would authenticate Christ's mission and empower the disciples to share the full gospel.
Why should They Fear no More?
Not because suffering is absent: Following Christ would mean facing rejection, persecution, and even death.
But because the outcome is certain: Jesus’ mission is unstoppable. His death and resurrection ensure victory, and nothing can thwart God’s sovereign plan.
The Fearless Church
The true church of Jesus Christ is called to advance courageously, knowing that Christ has overcome the world.
As followers of Christ, we are empowered by his presence and the certainty of his triumph.
Echoes of the Great Commission
In this moment, we hear the heartbeat of the Great Commission:
"All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations..." (Matthew 28:18-20).
The disciples were being prepared for their future mission:
Proclaim the Gospel Boldly
The transfiguration was a preview of Christ’s glory, but the resurrection would fully confirm his authority.
They were commissioned to share this truth, making disciples and expanding the reach of the true church.
Carry Out the Mission Fearlessly
Knowing that Christ’s authority extends over all creation, they could move forward without fear.
His promise to be “with you always, to the end of the age” remains the foundation of the church’s strength to prevail.
What Can We Do?
Understand the True Church of Jesus Christ
A church built on the confession of Christ, a revelation of his divine nature, and an unstoppable advance of his kingdom.
A church willing to confront the world’s opposition and endure suffering for the sake of the gospel.
Embrace the Mission
The church is called to unlock the gates of death and hell with the keys of the kingdom. This means proclaiming Christ boldly, even when it costs us.
Anticipate the Consummation
The story is not complete until Christ returns in glory to judge and restore. This future reality should inspire urgency in our mission and hope in our hearts.
Rise, and Have No Fear
Jesus’ words to his disciples remain his words to us. We are a people on a resolute course, guided by the risen Christ, armed with the gospel, and propelled by the promise of his return. Let us rise and live fearlessly, proclaiming the glory of Christ until the whole world hears.
Looking Ahead
We noticed that Jesus demonstrated his person, power, and mission at Mt. Hermon. In the transfiguration, everything that Jesus claimed was authenticated. Although the task is immense and the battle is fierce, we need not fear. For the Son of Man is with us and he will return in glory to judge the living and the dead and to consummate all things for his church.
Call to Action
What must the believer do with the revelation he has had?
Why must the believer not fear?
What will be the final outcome?