At the Transfiguration, a profound moment recorded in the Gospels, Jesus is seen conversing with two towering figures from the Old Testament—Moses and Elijah. Their presence is rich with meaning: Moses represents the Law, and Elijah symbolizes the Prophets. Together, they affirm that Jesus is the fulfillment of both, the one to whom all Scripture ultimately points. According to Luke 9:31, their conversation centered on Jesus’ “departure” (Greek: exodos), referring to His impending death, resurrection, and ascension—a redemptive mission echoing the Exodus story led by Moses, but now on a global, eternal scale.
This divine dialogue is not just theological; it’s deeply personal. It confirms that Jesus’ suffering and victory were always part of God’s plan, offering assurance that He is the culmination of centuries of promise and prophecy. When God’s voice declares, “This is my Son… listen to Him,” it reminds us that Jesus is the ultimate authority and our true source of guidance. His teachings are meant to shape how we live, hope, and trust in God’s plan.
Keep reading for a deeper dive into how this moment not only confirms Jesus’ mission but also strengthens your faith and walk with Him today.
Have you ever wondered what Moses and Elijah talked to Jesus about during the Transfiguration? This extraordinary event is one of the most fascinating moments in the New Testament. Let’s dive into the details to understand the significance of their conversation and what it means for you today.
The Setting of the Transfiguration
The Transfiguration is described in three of the Gospels: Matthew 17:1-9, Mark 9:2-8, and Luke 9:28-36. It takes place on a high mountain, traditionally believed to be Mount Tabor. Jesus takes Peter, James, and John with Him. As they watch, Jesus’ appearance changes—His face shines like the sun, and His clothes become dazzling white.
The Appearance of Moses and Elijah
Suddenly, Moses and Elijah appear and begin talking with Jesus. This is significant because Moses represents the Law, and Elijah represents the Prophets. Their presence signifies the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets in Jesus.
Moses: The Lawgiver
Moses, who led the Israelites out of Egypt and received the Ten Commandments on Mount Sinai, is a central figure in the Old Testament. His presence at the Transfiguration highlights the connection between the Law given to Israel and its fulfillment in Christ.
Elijah: The Prophet
Elijah is one of the greatest prophets, known for his miraculous deeds and his confrontation with the prophets of Baal. He was taken up to heaven in a whirlwind (2 Kings 2:11), which makes his appearance here all the more remarkable.
The Conversation
So, what did they talk about? Luke 9:31 gives us a glimpse: “They spoke about His departure, which He was about to bring to fulfillment at Jerusalem.” The word “departure” (Greek: exodos) is loaded with meaning, pointing to Jesus’ death, resurrection, and ascension.
Jesus’ Departure
The term “exodos” reminds us of the Exodus, where Moses led the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt. Here, it symbolizes Jesus’ mission to lead humanity out of the bondage of sin and death. His impending crucifixion in Jerusalem is the culmination of this mission.
The Fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets
By discussing His departure with Moses and Elijah, Jesus confirms that His death and resurrection are the fulfillment of everything the Law and the Prophets pointed to. This conversation underscores the continuity between the Old and New Testaments and the centrality of Jesus in God’s redemptive plan.
The Reaction of the Disciples
Peter, overwhelmed by the sight, suggests building three shelters for Jesus, Moses, and Elijah. Before he can finish, a bright cloud envelops them, and a voice from the cloud says, “This is my Son, whom I love; with Him I am well pleased. Listen to Him!” (Matthew 17:5).
God’s Confirmation
This divine affirmation echoes the voice heard at Jesus’ baptism (Matthew 3:17). It underscores Jesus’ unique identity as the Son of God and His authority. The command to “listen to Him” directs the disciples—and us—to heed Jesus’ teachings and recognize His fulfillment of the Old Testament promises.
The Significance for Believers
Understanding the conversation between Jesus, Moses, and Elijah can deepen your faith and appreciation of God’s plan of salvation. Here are some key takeaways:
The Fulfillment of Scripture
Jesus’ discussion with Moses and Elijah highlights how He fulfills the Old Testament prophecies and promises. This reinforces the reliability and unity of the Bible.
The Centrality of Jesus
The presence of Moses and Elijah points to Jesus as the focal point of God’s redemptive plan. Everything in the Law and the Prophets finds its fulfillment in Him.
The Importance of Listening to Jesus
God’s command to “listen to Him” reminds you to prioritize Jesus’ teachings in your life. His words are the ultimate authority and guide for living according to God’s will.
The Assurance of God’s Plan
The Transfiguration assures you that God’s plan of salvation is perfect and unfolding exactly as intended. Jesus’ departure—His death and resurrection—was not a tragic accident but a divine necessity for your redemption.
Applying the Transfiguration to Your Life
Reflecting on the Transfiguration can inspire and challenge you in several ways:
Trust in God’s Plan
Just as Moses and Elijah spoke of Jesus’ “departure,” trust that God has a perfect plan for your life, even when it’s not immediately clear. His plans are for your ultimate good and His glory (Jeremiah 29:11).
Listen to Jesus
Make a conscious effort to listen to Jesus through reading the Gospels, praying, and seeking to apply His teachings in your daily life. Let His words shape your decisions and actions.
Embrace the Fulfillment
Rejoice in the fulfillment of God’s promises through Jesus. Understand that His life, death, and resurrection provide the foundation for your faith and hope.
Witness to Others
Share the significance of the Transfiguration and what Moses and Elijah talked to Jesus about with others. Help them see the continuity of God’s plan from the Old Testament to the New Testament and the centrality of Jesus in that plan.
Conclusion
The conversation between Moses, Elijah, and Jesus during the Transfiguration is a powerful testament to the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan. By understanding this event, you can deepen your faith, trust in God’s plan, and commit to listening to and following Jesus. This moment on the mountain isn’t just a historical event—it’s a revelation of who Jesus is and what He came to accomplish for you and for all humanity.
FAQs On What Did Moses and Elijah Talk to Jesus About?
1. What is the Transfiguration?
The Transfiguration is an event in the New Testament where Jesus’ appearance was gloriously transformed, and He was seen talking with Moses and Elijah on a high mountain. This event is described in Matthew 17:1-9, Mark 9:2-8, and Luke 9:28-36.
2. Who were Moses and Elijah?
Moses is a key figure in the Old Testament who led the Israelites out of Egypt and received the Ten Commandments. Elijah was a great prophet known for his miracles and confrontation with the prophets of Baal. Both represent the Law and the Prophets, respectively.
3. Why did Moses and Elijah appear with Jesus?
Moses and Elijah’s appearance signifies the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets in Jesus. Their presence underscores Jesus’ role as the Messiah who completes God’s plan of salvation.
4. What did Moses and Elijah talk to Jesus about?
According to Luke 9:31, they spoke about Jesus’ “departure,” which refers to His death, resurrection, and ascension. This conversation highlights the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies through Jesus’ mission.
5. What does the term “departure” mean in this context?
The term “departure” (Greek: exodos) alludes to Jesus’ upcoming crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension. It symbolizes Jesus leading humanity out of the bondage of sin and death, much like Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt.
6. What is the significance of the Transfiguration for believers?
The Transfiguration highlights the fulfillment of Scripture in Jesus, the centrality of Jesus in God’s plan, the importance of listening to Jesus’ teachings, and the assurance of God’s perfect plan for salvation.
7. How did the disciples react to the Transfiguration?
Peter, overwhelmed by the event, suggested building three shelters for Jesus, Moses, and Elijah. However, a voice from a cloud interrupted, affirming Jesus as God’s Son and instructing them to listen to Him (Matthew 17:5).
8. Why is God’s command to “listen to Him” important?
God’s command to “listen to Him” emphasizes Jesus’ authority and the necessity of heeding His teachings. It directs believers to prioritize Jesus’ words in their lives.
9. How can I apply the lessons from the Transfiguration to my life?
- Trust in God’s Plan: Believe that God has a perfect plan for your life, even when it’s not clear.
- Listen to Jesus: Regularly read the Gospels, pray, and apply Jesus’ teachings in your life.
- Embrace the Fulfillment: Rejoice in the fulfillment of God’s promises through Jesus.
- Witness to Others: Share the significance of the Transfiguration with others, highlighting the continuity of God’s plan and Jesus’ central role.
10. Where can I find the biblical accounts of the Transfiguration?
The Transfiguration is described in the following passages:
- Matthew 17:1-9
- Mark 9:2-8
- Luke 9:28-36
By reflecting on these scriptures and understanding the conversation between Moses, Elijah, and Jesus, you can gain deeper insights into God’s redemptive plan and strengthen your faith.
