The transfiguration in Luke 9:28-36 is one of the most fascinating moments of Jesus’ life and ministry. Why now and why here? What does this show us about the mission of God?
SERMON OUTLINE
“As he was praying the appearance of his face changed.” (Luke 9:29)
The Glorious Unveiling (Luke 9:28-31)
- Jesus’ glory
- Jesus’ companions
- Jesus’ exodus
The Glorious Overwhelming (Luke 9:32-33)
- Shocked awake
- Peter’s desire to build shelters
The Glorious Voice (Luke 9:34-35)
- The cloud
- The voice
The Glorious Silence (Luke 9:36; Habakkuk 2:20)
- The awe-filled silence
- The untold story
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
- When have you experienced real jaw-dropping awe in your life? What happened or where were you?
- We continue the series “Jesus on the Move” this week by looking at Luke 9:28-36. Before you begin this study, ask God to speak to you from His Word, and then read the text aloud.
- This story occurs after many miracles, as well as Peter’s declaration that Jesus is God’s Messiah (9:20) and Jesus’ prediction of His death and resurrection (9:21-27). Like many other pivotal events, this episode arises in the context of prayer. Why do you think that is important?
- Jesus’ physical transformation seems to be a ‘sneak preview’ of the glory of God found in Him. Moses and Elijah stand nearby and talk with Jesus. Read Deuteronomy 18:14-21 and Malachi 4:5-6. What would you say is the significance of Moses and Elijah’s presence here?
- Peter, John and James are startled to attention by this amazing sight. Peter wants to build booths, which may refer to the Jewish Feast of Tabernacles (Leviticus 23:33-44; Deuteronomy 16:13-17). Why do you think Peter says this?
- The appearance of a cloud over this glorious gathering is reminiscent of the glory of God covering His people in a cloud (Exodus 40:34-35; 2 Chronicles 5:13-14). What does the voice from the cloud tell us about who Jesus is; even who Jesus is compared to Moses and Elijah?
- Habakkuk 2:20 says, “The Lord is in his holy temple; let all the earth keep silence before him.” Take some time in stillness and silence to reflect on the glory of the Lord.
- What is one thing that God is speaking to you personally through this study? If you’re on your own, take some time to write it down and share it with someone later. If you are with a small group, share it with one another.