The Transfiguration serves to unveil Jesus’ true identity to his inner circle of disciples – Peter, James, and John. His face changes, and his clothes become dazzling white, symbolizing his divine nature and prefiguring his glorified state after the resurrection. This moment confirms that Jesus is not just a prophet or teacher, but the Messiah, with a unique relationship to God.  In Luke 9:27, Jesus says, “Truly I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the kingdom of God.” Many thought this was a prediction of the end times coming, but it was actually this event, the Transfiguration, that Jesus is referring to.
   

Confirmation of His Mission

The appearance of Moses and Elijah, representing the Law and the Prophets, underscores that Jesus fulfills the Old Testament. They speak with him about his “departure” (Greek: exodos), which he was about to accomplish in Jerusalem—his impending death, resurrection, and ascension. This ties his mission to the broader story of God’s redemption, echoing the Exodus liberation.  Moses represents the Law, and Elijah represents the prophets, as he was the greatest of them.  This event shows that Jesus is the Lord, and the fulfillment of the promises made in scripture.  In his book “These Twelve”, Rod Bennet writes:

“Moses learned (along with Elijah) that Jesus would soon lead an exodus from bondage at the Holy City, just as Moses himself once led the Israelites in an exodus from their servitude in Egypt. Not unnaturally, the eavesdropping apostles likely interpreted this news of an exodus solely in terms of literal liberation from the yoke of Rome. Moses knew, however—perhaps better than anyone—that Israel’s real troubles began after their release from pagan captivity.”

   

The Transfiguration occurs at a turning point in Luke, as Jesus sets his face toward Jerusalem (Luke 9:51), where he will face suffering and death. This awe-inspiring experience prepares the disciples for the challenges ahead, giving them a glimpse of the glory that lies beyond the cross, even though they struggle to fully grasp it at the time (e.g., Peter’s awkward suggestion to build tents).  The cloud envelops the three, causing them to be afraid.  The voice from the cloud declares, “This is my chosen Son; listen to him.” (Luke 9:35). This echoes Jesus’ baptism (Luke 3:22) and directly affirms his authority to the disciples. It instructs them (and readers) to heed his teachings, especially as he heads toward the crucifixion.  There is awe, joy, and majesty wrapped up in this event, preparing Peter, James and John for the upcoming trials ahead.

   

These links are articles I used for researching the Friday Update.

  

I also use the USCCB NAB Bible and its footnotes extensively.