MORE NEW FORMATION

Jesus realized that this rigorous new program of repentance has crumbled the strength of the Twelve and has even become a stumbling block for their faith and hope. Because of this, Jesus took the leaders of the group, and led them to the top of a mountain, and, to reassure them, is transfigured before their eyes.

Transfigured means to change into another form. The word transfigure comes from metamorhoo (Greek, and is meta- implying change and morphe meaning form). It is to change the form, or to be transformed. There are even further breakdowns that are important. Morphe lays stress on the inward change and schema lays stress on outer change. Both are necessary. To change into this other ‘form’ is especially significant. Also present at this event is Moses and Elijah (Mark 9:4; Matthew 17:1-8) who represent the Law and the Prophets. The voice of God speaks and says, “This is My beloved Son, listen to Him!” (Matthew 9:7), which is to say, the voice of Jesus supersedes and replaces the Law and the Prophets by completing them. The transfiguration is the perfect example of a transformed person; what controlled at first now no longer controls; what was previous is no longer. Something new has been formed.
To live, one has to die.
Resurrection and crucifixion are the same thing.
Calvary and Tabor are the same thing.
Resurrection is not a sequence but a consequence of Christ’s death.
Only repentance leads to transfiguration.
Jesus, teach me the new order. Lead me to transfiguration through repentance. Lord, I cry out with you, “Repent, for the kingdom of God is at hand” and bring me back into original order in this very way.

“If anyone serves me, he must follow me; and where I am, there will my servant be also. If anyone serves me, the Father will honor him.” Jesus