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Traditional Lens Commentary: Matthew 17:1-13

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Traditional Lens Reading of Matthew 17:1-13

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read this passage as the Transfiguration of Christ, which reveals His divine nature and prefigures His resurrection glory. It underscores the continuity between the Old and New Covenants, with Moses and Elijah representing the Law and the Prophets, both of which find their fulfillment in Christ. Furthermore, the Father's voice affirms Jesus' identity as the beloved Son, echoing the baptismal declaration and emphasizing His unique role in salvation history.

Key Language Decisions

In the Greek, the term 'metamorphothe' (μεταμορφώθη) is significant, emphasizing Christ's transformation and revealing His divine glory, which is crucial for our understanding of His dual nature as both fully God and fully man. The imperative 'akouete' (ἀκούετε) in the Father's command 'Listen to Him' reinforces the authoritative voice of Christ in fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets, which our tradition sees as central to biblical authority.

Where Traditions Diverge

Our tradition diverges from more liberal theological traditions that might interpret the Transfiguration as a mere visionary experience without affirming Christ's divine nature. This matters because affirming the deity of Christ is essential to our understanding of the atonement and His role as mediator. Additionally, we differ from traditions like Eastern Orthodoxy, which may emphasize the mystical aspects of the Transfiguration, while we focus on its redemptive-historical significance.

Pastoral Application

In preaching this passage, we encourage our congregations to see Christ as the fulfillment of all Scripture, urging them to heed God's command to 'Listen to Him' as the ultimate authority for faith and practice. This text should bolster our confidence in the divinity of Christ and His redemptive work. We must also highlight the necessity of personal faith in Christ, who alone bridges the Old and New Covenants. Our congregation would expect a call to deeper discipleship, rooted in the authority of the Word of God and the glory of Christ revealed in this event.

Cross-References: Exodus 24:16-18; 2 Peter 1:16-18; Hebrews 1:1-3; Mark 9:2-8; Luke 9:28-36

Doctrinal Connections: The deity of Christ; The fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets; The Trinity; The hypostatic union; The authority of Scripture

Topics & Themes

The deity of ChristThe fulfillment of the Law and the ProphetsThe TrinityThe hypostatic unionThe authority of Scripture

Scripture References

Matthew 17:1-13

Best Used In

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Audience

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