More Than a Sentence

Matthew 17:4-6 Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here. If you wish, I will put up three shelters – one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.” 5 While he was still speaking, a bright cloud enveloped them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!”
 
THIS may seem to be a temporary interchange between God and mankind. The Father spoke one line to Jesus’ three disciples. But in that sentence is an eternal assurance and promise. The Father was pointing the three chosen disciples to be particular voices to declare Heaven’s reality. God gave the disciples a view of Heaven, so they would faithfully testify to the eternal life awaiting all who believe Jesus is the Son of God.
   As we’ve noted, the Bible informs us of many moments when Heaven came to earth. From the creation onward, the Holy Trinity has informed and interacted with his creation. He began with a very intimate, whole relationship with Adam and Eve. He then spoke to his chosen leaders to teach them who he is. With Noah, we learn God is a Holy Promise Keeper. Through Moses we have come to understand God is Law. From Joshua to David God teaches he is a Warrior. He has used the Prophets to show the world he is an Overseer who admonishes, judges, forgives, promises and warns. He is Redeemer through Jesus. God is Knowledge and Wisdom through the Holy Spirit. He is Messenger and Teacher through the apostles. In all Scripture God wants us to know: There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called, one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. (Ephesians 4:4-6)
   God’s glory came to earth. He displayed his rule over earth as he instructed people to obey his words, so they would forever be his people.
   As the Father spoke, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!” he is telling us to know and to listen to Jesus. “Understand he speaks the truth. Know he has a mission to complete. Obey his commands, even when they seem impossible to accomplish. Follow him through the cross into his resurrection power.
   “Yes, listen, Peter, James and John, and you will learn your purpose. And one day you will be with Moses, Elijah and all the others. One day you will be with me.”
   Amid the extraordinary appearance of the obedient Moses and Elijah with their Lord, the awestruck disciples heard God’s voice pointing them to the future. “Listen to him.” leaves no options.
          Peter wanted to stay there, and who can blame him? But very quickly Jesus would take his disciples from this mountain to the mount in Jerusalem, where they would see God’s glory in a very different way.