The Transfiguration: A Glimpse of Glory
In Luke 9:35, during the miraculous event of the Transfiguration, Jesus appears in radiant glory alongside Moses and Elijah. The mountain becomes a stage of divine revelation. Peter, James, and John awaken to witness a moment so holy and overwhelming that Peter impulsively offers to build three shelters for Jesus and His heavenly guests. Then, the voice of God the Father interrupts, declaring:
“This is my Son, whom I have chosen; listen to Him.” (Luke 9:35 NIV)
This divine pronouncement affirms Jesus’ identity as the Chosen One, the fulfillment of all that the Law (Moses) and the Prophets (Elijah) represented. His glorified appearance offers a preview of His future return in majesty and power—King of kings and Lord of lords.
The Fulfillment of the Law and Prophets
Moses, as the giver of the Law, and Elijah, the prophet who called Israel to repentance, both symbolize the old covenant. Their presence beside Jesus on the mount demonstrates that: Jesus is the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets. He is the new and living way, not merely a continuation of the old, but the embodiment of God’s grace. God’s command to “Listen to Him!” signifies a transition—from a religion of rules to a relationship based on faith in the Messiah of Grace.
Righteousness: Not Through Law, but Grace
The New Testament repeatedly shows us that no human can attain righteousness by simply following the Law. For example: The rich young ruler (Mark 10) followed the Law but lacked a heart of surrender, unwilling to let go of his wealth. Jesus reminds us, “No one is good—except God alone,” pointing us toward grace, not human merit.
Likewise, in the Parable of the Wedding Feast (Matthew 22:1–14), one guest is cast out for not wearing the proper wedding garment—symbolizing those who try to enter the Kingdom clothed in their own self-righteousness, rather than the righteousness of Christ.
The Chosen Ones: Clothed in Christ
Being chosen is not about external religion or heritage. It is about being clothed in Christ (Galatians 3:27), having received His righteousness through faith. We are invited into the feast, not based on our worthiness, but because we have accepted His invitation and allowed Him to prepare us.
Salvation is not earned—it is a gift of grace. Those who depend on personal goodness or law-keeping are like the man wearing the old filthy garments of self-righteousness; they will be found unfit. But those who humbly accept the apparel of Christ’s righteousness are received with joy.
Conclusion: Listen to Him
The Father’s words at the Transfiguration echo across time: “Listen to Him.” In a world still chasing self-righteousness and religious appearances, the call remains the same; fix your eyes on Jesus. He is the Chosen One, and through Him, we too become chosen—redeemed, beloved, and prepared for glory.
Let us not be like the foolish guest who assumed he could enter on his own terms, or like the rich ruler who clung to earthly treasures. Instead, let us respond with open hearts, clothed in the righteousness of Christ, walking in grace, listening to the voice of the One who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.