What does Matthew 17:3 mean?

Explanation

Matthew 17:3 narrates an extraordinary event where two significant figures from the Old Testament, Moses and Elijah (Elias), appear in a miraculous vision alongside Jesus.

This verse is part of a larger passage known as the Transfiguration, whereby Jesus is transformed and becomes radiant on a high mountain before three of his disciples: Peter, James, and John.

Moses and Elijah's appearance and their conversation with Jesus can be viewed in several ways: Moses represents the Law, and Elijah, the Prophets, signifying that Jesus is the fulfillment of both the Law and the prophetic words.

It can also symbolize the continuity and unity of Old and New Testament revelations.

The disciples witnessing this scene are given a glimpse of Jesus' divine glory, affirming his Sonship and Messianic role.

Historical Context

The Gospel of Matthew was written primarily for a Jewish audience, and the author often presents Jesus as the new Moses. By situating Jesus in direct dialogue with Moses and Elijah, Matthew is showing Jesus as the continuator and fulfiller of the Jewish faith.

The narrative is designed to affirm Jesus' authority and establish him as the figure towards whom both the Law (Torah) and the prophets pointed.

Elijah was expected to return before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord, according to Malachi 4:5-6, and thus his appearance alongside Jesus may be interpreted by the early Christian community as signifying the advent of the messianic age.

Theological Insights

Different theological viewpoints interpret this verse variously.

A traditional Christian interpretation may see this event as a testimony to Jesus's divine nature and the confirmation of him being the chosen one who fulfills the prophecies.

The presence of Moses and Elijah could suggest the idea of the deceased being alive in God's presence.

From a Christological perspective, it is a moment affirming the divinity of Jesus and his unique relationship with God, ahead of his death and resurrection.

Some eschatological interpretations suggest that this event is also a foretaste of the Kingdom of God to come.

Practical Applications

Matthew 17:3 can encourage believers to reflect on the continuity of their faith tradition and to see Jesus as a bridge between the Old and New Testaments. It can also inspire individuals to seek transformative experiences and deeper understandings by drawing closer to Jesus.

Furthermore, this event can serve as a reminder that the truth of Jesus' teachings and life is grounded in and springs from the long history of Jewish faith, a call for a respectful and inclusive view towards the Jewish roots of Christianity.

Cross-References

• Matthew 5:17: "Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil."
• Malachi 4:5-6: "Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the LORD: And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse."
• Luke 9:30-31: "And, behold, there talked with him two men, which were Moses and Elias: Who appeared in glory, and spake of his decease which he should accomplish at Jerusalem."
• Deuteronomy 18:15: "The LORD thy God will raise up unto thee a Prophet from the midst of thee, of thy brethren, like unto me; unto him ye shall hearken;"

Language Study

The key terms in the original Greek text of this verse are:

• "ὤφθη" (ōphthē): This is a passive verb meaning 'appeared', 'were seen', or 'showed themselves.' It indicates that the vision was given to them, not that they actively created the vision.
• "Ἡλίας" (Elias): This is the Greek form of "Elijah," the prophet known in the Hebrew Bible.
• "συλλαλοῦντες" (syllalountes): A participle often translated as "talking with," indicating an interactive conversation occurring between Jesus, Moses, and Elijah.

The choice of these words emphasizes the suddenness and divine initiative of the vision, presenting Moses and Elijah in active dialogue with Jesus.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparable visions of spiritual figures can be found in various religious traditions.

In Hinduism, for example, there are accounts of sages and deities appearing to devotees, offering guidance or affirmation.

In Islam, the Prophet Muhammad is believed to have met with previous prophets during his Night Journey.

This verse in Matthew may remind readers of these stories, though the theological implications are unique within the Christian narrative.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, this verse describes an event that does not conform to the natural laws as we understand them.

Visions like the one in Matthew 17:3 are usually interpreted through neurological or psychological lenses, considering them as mystical experiences that may have natural explanations.

Scientific considerations might include altered states of consciousness or the role of the human brain in perceiving transcendent events; however, such interpretations would generally be placed outside the realm of traditional theological belief.

Commentaries

Various experts and biblical commentators offer different perspectives on this verse.

Matthew Henry's commentary notes that Moses and Elijah's conversation with Jesus signifies the harmony between the Law, the Prophets, and the Gospel.

William Barclay suggests that Moses and Elijah's appearance provides Jesus with the assurance that he is on the right path.

Commentators from the Reformation era, such as John Calvin, see this event as a strengthening of the disciples' faith in Jesus' identity as the Messiah.

Contemporary scholars might focus more on the literary and historical-critical aspects of the text, examining how the first-century context and narrative artistry serve Matthew's theological message.