The Transfiguration of Jesus (Luke 9:28-36)
Sermon Summary
Pastor David Yan
20 July 2025
The transfiguration of Jesus Christ authenticated he was from heaven. Who except Jesus Christ has been transfigured as he was?
Jesus took Peter, John and James to the mount of transfiguration They were his inner circle. Those who are close to Jesus see things others do not see. The three disciples saw something unique — the transfiguration of Jesus. It was necessary that his transfiguration be witnessed by two or three witnesses. Those who deny the transfiguration must first discredit these witnesses. This has never been done.
The appearance of Jesus’ face was changed. His clothes became white and glistening. Here was a glimpse of the heavenly glory of Jesus. The curtain of heaven was parted and what was previously hidden is now revealed. What is revealed belongs to us. We are beneficiaries of God’s revelation.
Moses and Elijah appeared with Jesus. This is remarkable. On earth they lived 500 years apart. But now, at the transfiguration, they are together. In heaven there is no time-difference between God’s people. What a blessed hope! There is to be a glorious reunion with departed loved ones who are in the Lord.
As Moses and Elijah were departing Peter spoke of building tabernacles — one each for Moses, Elijah and Jesus. But Peter did not know what he was saying. He was so uplifted by the experience he wanted to preserve the moment. This was rather like Jacob wanting the Lord not to leave him without blessing him (Genesis 32:26).
A cloud suddenly covered the group and the voice of the Lord God was heard saying, “This is my beloved Son. Hear him.” The Heavenly Father has given all authority to Jesus. We must hear Jesus. He fulfils the Old Testament which speaks of him.
Peter, John and James kept quiet about their remarkable experience. One reason for their silence is the overwhelming nature of their experience. They had just seen something of heaven’s glory. Words could not describe what they saw. This was similar to Paul saying he heard things which were inexpressible (2 Cor.12:2).
Jesus’ transfiguration gives us a glimpse of what is to come. There is life after death and it is a glorious life. The glory of Jesus’ transfiguration gives us a taste of heaven and its glory. Hear Jesus. Trust his word. He is our Saviour. Be ready to be changed into his image when you shall see him as he is. His transfiguration foreshadows our transformation. What a glorious hope!