Christ’s transfiguration (metamorphose) on the mountain was a revelation of his divine nature and also a vision of his return in glory and power. Matthew writes that Jesus was “transfigured” and Peter, James, and John saw his face shine “like the sun, and his clothing was white as the light” (Matthew 17:2).
Mark 9:3 informs us that the garments of Jesus “became shining, exceeding white like snow; whiter than any earthly bleacher can bleach them.” Luke writes that as he prayed, “the fashion of his countenance was altered, and his clothing was white and glistening” (Luke 9:29).
Decades later, the Apostle Peter recalled the event and wrote: “”We were eyewitnesses of his majesty. For he received from the father honour and glory, when there came such as voice to him from the excellent glory, ‘This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.’ And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with him on the holy mount.” (2 Peter 1:16-18)
Peter’s subject is “the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ”. In verse 19 he refers to prophecy as “a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts.”
Peter is referring to the Second Coming. The word “power” in NT Greek is “parousia”: “coming presence”. Those reading the gospel narratives need not puzzle over the meaning of the transfiguration event. Peter was an “eyewitness” and he saw it as a preview of Christ’s return to earth in power and glory!
Jesus instructed the three disciples to keep what they had seen to themselves because he had to die and then to rise again before the splendid event that they had witnessed could take place.
Just as those who attend movie theatres view previews of coming attractions, Peter, James, and John were given a preview of the greatest coming attraction this world will ever see! Whenever I read Peter’s preview, I can hardly wait to view the entire event, which is soon to be screened worldwide at a date to be announced!