In Matthew 16:28-17:8, Brother Sparks discusses the significance of the transfiguration of Jesus, emphasizing its importance in the context of God's plan. He notes that this event is a focal point in Scripture, linking the past and future of God's kingdom. Jesus took Peter, James, and John to witness His transfiguration, showcasing moral perfection and glory, which are essential characteristics of the kingdom. The transfiguration serves as an object lesson, illustrating the nature of the kingdom as one of spiritual victory and radiance. Brother Sparks highlights that the kingdom is not about earthly power but about spiritual transformation and unity among believers, as seen in the disciples' change after Pentecost. He stresses the need for humility and openness to the Lord, warning against the dangers of prejudice and closed-mindedness that can lead to missing the kingdom. Ultimately, the transfiguration reveals the glory of Christ and serves as a call for believers to submit to His Lordship, leading to a deeper understanding of the kingdom and its implications for their lives.
Significance of the transfiguration in God's plan
Link between past and future of God's kingdom
Witness of Peter, James, and John as an object lesson
Characteristics of the kingdom: moral perfection and glory
Spiritual victory and unity among believers
Importance of humility and openness to the Lord
Warning against prejudice and closed-mindedness
Call to submit to Christ's lordship
28 Verily I say unto you, There be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the Son of man coming in his kingdom.
Chapter 17
1 And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart, 2 And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light. 3 And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him. 4 Then answered Peter, and said unto Jesus, Lord, it is good for us to be here: if thou wilt, let us make here three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias. 5 While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him. 6 And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their face, and were sore afraid. 7 And Jesus came and touched them, and said, Arise, and be not afraid. 8 And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man, save Jesus only.