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Matthew 17:5
Verse
Context
The Transfiguration
4Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here. If You wish, I will put up three shelters —one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” 5While Peter was still speaking, a bright cloud enveloped them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Listen to Him!”6When the disciples heard this, they fell facedown in terror.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- John Gill
- Tyndale
John Gill Bible Commentary
While he yet spake,.... That is, while Peter was proposing the above to Christ, before an answer could be given by him, and which was unworthy of one, another scene of things presents, and a full answer is returned him by a voice from the Father; directing him and his fellow disciples, to attend to Jesus only, and not to Moses and Elias; and behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them; that is, Jesus, Moses, and Elias; the two last of which were seen no more; and which cloud covered them, as the cloud of glory covered the Israelites in the wilderness: and which, as it ceased at the death of Moses, the first prophet; one like unto it appeared at the declaration of Christ, as the greater prophet, spoken of, and typified by Moses. The disciples at its first appearance were not under it, and overshadowed by it; for Luke adds, "and they feared as they entered into the cloud"; there was such a solemnity and glory in it, as struck their minds with awe and fear, as they gradually came into it, and under it. This cloud, which is said to be a "bright" one, was a symbol of the divine presence, and a token of the love, grace, and favour of God; and expressive of the brightness and clearness of the Gospel dispensation, in distinction from the obscurity of the legal one, signified by the thick, dark, and black cloud, God descended in on Mount Sinai, when he gave the law; and behold, a voice out of the cloud. The word "behold", is prefixed both to the cloud and to the voice out of it, which were both wonderful and surprising; and which voice came from heaven, and from the excellent glory, from God the Father in heaven: as says Peter, who was now present, Pe2 1:17. Which said, this is my beloved Son; not a servant, as Moses, Elias, and the rest of the prophets were: though as Mediator, and as considered in his office capacity, he was a servant; but in this clause, he is considered in his personal character and relation to the Father, as a divine person, who was the Son of God: not by creation, as angels and men are the sons of God; nor by adoption, as saints are; or on account of his miraculous incarnation, and resurrection from the dead; whereby indeed, he was manifested and declared to be the Son of God, which he was before; but on account of his natural relation to God, as his Father; he being the eternal, essential, and only begotten Son of God, in a way of filiation no creature is, and which, is ineffable by us. And as such he is dearly beloved of God his Father, being his image and the brightness of his glory; of the same nature and perfections with him, and equal to him. So he ever was, and will be, and that even in the meanest form and lowest condition, in which he has appeared: he was his beloved Son, when he was made flesh and dwelt among men, while submitting to ordinances, as to baptism, and obeying his Father's will, when covered with reproach, and full of sorrows; when he hung upon the cross, and laid down his life for his people; which he showed, by concealing nothing from him; by putting all things into his hands, and by appointing him the head of the church, the Saviour of the body, and the judge of quick and dead. In whom I am well pleased: Mark and Luke have not this clause, but Peter, who was present, and heard the words spoken, mentions it, Pe2 1:17 which confirms Matthew's relation. This regards, not so much the well pleasedness of God with the person of Christ, which is expressed in the former clause; but signifies that he was in him, as Mediator, well pleased with all his people; he was well pleased with his righteousness he was working out, whereby the law was magnified, and made honourable; and with the sacrifice he was about to offer up, which would be of a sweet smelling savour to him, his justice being entirely satisfied with it; and with all he did and suffered in human nature; which were things that always pleased the Father, being according to his will, his counsel and covenant: and so he graciously accepted of, and was infinitely well pleased with all his elect, as considered in him, and represented by him, on account of his righteousness, sacrifice, and satisfaction: hear ye him; as the former clause chiefly respects that part of his mediatorial office, the priestly, this regards his prophetic office principally, and also his kingly office; so that in this divine testimony, first his sonship is bore witness to, and then his several offices; which his sonship is the foundation of, and qualifies him to bear and execute. This clause has the very words which Moses delivered, when he spoke of the Messiah, the great prophet like unto himself, that should be raised up among the Jews; saying, "unto him ye shall hearken", Deu 18:15. So that these words, "hear ye him", most clearly point to Christ, as being this prophet, who is to be heard, and he only; not Moses, but he, the prophet Moses prophesied of; nor Elias, or any of the other prophets, but one greater than them all: hear and believe his prophecies, concerning his sufferings, death, and resurrection, lately delivered by him; listen to, and embrace his doctrines, as coming from God, and as having a divine impress upon them, and being confirmed by miraculous works; submit to his ordinances, and obey his commands, as king of saints; hear him always, and in all things.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
17:5 a bright cloud overshadowed them: Such an occurrence accompanied God’s presence among the ancient Israelites during Moses’ ministry (see Exod 24:15-18; 25:8; 29:45-46; 40:34-38). • my dearly loved Son: The Father was confirming what Peter had previously affirmed (Matt 16:16-17). • They should listen to him because Jesus is God’s Son, who, as a prophet, reveals God’s will (11:27; see Deut 18:15, 18; Acts 3:22-23; 7:37).
Matthew 17:5
The Transfiguration
4Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here. If You wish, I will put up three shelters —one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” 5While Peter was still speaking, a bright cloud enveloped them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Listen to Him!”6When the disciples heard this, they fell facedown in terror.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Saving Life of Christ - Part 1
By Major Ian Thomas5.1K1:04:15Life Of ChristMAT 10:1MAT 17:5LUK 24:27ACT 1:82PE 1:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the power of God and the importance of understanding who He is. The sermon references the Gospel of Luke, specifically the moment when the women came to the apostles and proclaimed that Jesus was alive. Despite initially mocking the women, the apostles eventually realized the truth and the significance of Jesus' resurrection. The sermon also mentions a story about an artist who created a beautiful mural but was upset when his assistant accidentally ruined it. However, in that moment, God spoke and affirmed the importance of listening to His Son. The sermon concludes by highlighting the need for believers to rely on the power of God and to fulfill their responsibility of sharing the truth of Jesus' death and resurrection with the world.
Men Whose Eyes Have Seen the King - Part 1
By T. Austin-Sparks2.6K56:38Seeing JesusMAT 17:5MAT 17:92PE 1:162PE 1:19In this sermon, the speaker addresses the current state of the world, which is dominated by evil forces that cause destruction and harm. The church is portrayed as being unable to cope with these situations, leaving people feeling helpless. The speaker then refers to the Mount of Transfiguration as a source of inspiration and guidance. The need for men who have seen the King, referring to those who have had a spiritual encounter with God, is emphasized as a solution to the challenges faced by the world and the church. The sermon concludes by highlighting the story of a father who brings his possessed son to the disciples of Jesus, but they are unable to help. This story serves as a reminder of the importance of having a personal encounter with God in order to effectively minister to others.
Hearing God's Voice
By Art Katz2.5K1:01:16God's VoiceEXO 14:14JOS 1:9PSA 46:10MAT 17:5MAT 27:46MAT 28:20MRK 9:7In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the power of poetry as a form of communication, particularly in conveying theological concepts. He highlights the brevity and intensity of poetry, which can express profound truths in just a few verses. The speaker then delves into the significance of Jesus' cry on the cross, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" He emphasizes the depth of this moment and the vulnerability of humanity in missing God. The sermon concludes with a personal anecdote about the speaker's own experience of delivering a message on the Holocaust, highlighting the need for reliance on God's guidance and the potential for our own self-conscious concerns to hinder the will of God.
Visions of God - Part 5
By David Adams1.6K39:36VisionGEN 28:10GEN 32:22EXO 3:1MAT 3:17MAT 17:5MRK 1:11LUK 3:22In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the journey of Jacob and how God remained with him throughout his life. Despite Jacob's past trickery and doubts, God continued to be faithful. The speaker also discusses the story of Manoa and the angel of the Lord, emphasizing the importance of recognizing God's presence and guidance in our lives. The sermon encourages listeners to hold onto God's promises and to be open to special moments of encounter with Him, even in difficult circumstances.
Christ Is All - in Scripture
By Bill McLeod1.6K46:28Fulness Of ChristPSA 2:10PSA 40:7PSA 41:9MAT 1:21MAT 28:19MRK 14:62COL 3:11TIT 3:7PHM 1:1In this sermon, the speaker begins by referencing Mark 16 and Luke 1 from the Bible. He highlights how Jesus reproached his disciples for their lack of belief in his resurrection and then commanded them to preach the gospel to the world. The speaker also mentions that some versions of the Bible omit miracles and end with Jesus' death on the cross, portraying him as a good man and advocate of peace. However, the speaker emphasizes that the Bible is truly all about Jesus and explores the significance of his ministry and his role as the Son of God.
Sermon on the Mount: Peacemakers & Their Blessedness
By J. Glyn Owen1.4K44:03Sermon on the MountMAL 3:1MAT 3:17MAT 5:3MAT 6:33MAT 17:5ROM 8:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being a peacemaker in the biblical sense. He explains that becoming a peacemaker is dependent on one's character, which is developed through the process of being poor in spirit, mourning for one's sin, being meek, hungering and thirsting for righteousness, showing mercy to others, and having purity of heart. The speaker highlights that the role of a peacemaker is to bring about peace and transform the hearts of individuals, replacing dis-peace, war, misery, and hatred with worship, grace, and peace. He encourages listeners to reflect on whether they are peacemakers and to share the peace of God with others.
(Through the Bible) Matthew 17
By Chuck Smith1.3K45:05MAT 17:1MAT 17:5MAT 17:7MAT 17:22HEB 1:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Jesus and his disciples at Caesarea Philippi, as described in Matthew chapter 17. The chapter begins with Jesus talking to his disciples about his death and the glory of his Father. Jesus also mentions that some of the disciples will see him coming in his kingdom before they taste death. The preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding the context of this statement and not assuming that Jesus failed. He also highlights the significance of listening to Jesus as the full and true revelation of God. The sermon concludes with Jesus instructing his disciples not to share the vision they witnessed until after his resurrection.
You Are the Best Christian They Know
By Paris Reidhead1.3K1:04:07WitnessingMAT 5:20MAT 6:33MAT 17:5JHN 6:5JHN 14:6In this sermon, the speaker encourages the audience to actively listen and learn from the word of God. He refers to the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew chapter 5, where Jesus describes the characteristics of a blessed and happy person. The speaker emphasizes the importance of humility and a teachable spirit, using the example of Paul and Silas in prison. Despite being freed from their chains, they chose to stay and save the jailer from punishment. The sermon highlights the need to be open and receptive to God's teachings and to be willing to serve and help others.
If Ye Continue
By Paris Reidhead1.0K31:18SalvationMAT 17:5JHN 6:63JHN 8:31JHN 8:47HEB 1:1HEB 2:1HEB 12:25In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of listening to God's Son, as God has spoken to us through prophets in the past but now speaks to us through His Son. The speaker highlights that Jesus is the Creator, the heir, the sustainer, the revelation, the Redeemer, and the sovereign under whom everyone is subject. Therefore, the speaker urges the audience to pay close attention to everything that God has said through His Son. The sermon also touches on the incomparable nature of Jesus Christ and Christianity, stating that no other religion can be compared to it. The speaker concludes by emphasizing that every knee will eventually bow before Jesus, and the only choice people have is when to bow - either voluntarily now and live, or later and face eternal consequences.
Something Is Wrong - Part 04 of 05
By Richard Owen Roberts8731:12:37Church ProblemsGEN 3:9MAT 17:5ROM 10:171CO 2:10HEB 3:15JAS 1:19REV 3:20In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of coming into possession of a new phase of life through testing and obedience. He encourages the audience to interpret their challenges and trials as opportunities for growth rather than attributing them to the devil. The preacher acknowledges the difficulty of teaching in a series due to the inconsistency of the audience, but expresses a desire to delve deeper into subjects like prayer. He highlights the significance of confession as a platform for God's blessings and guidance in one's life.
7th Witness
By Edgar Reich8231:11:54Christian LifeMAT 3:17MAT 17:5JHN 5:18JHN 5:31In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of having faith in the Christian belief. He emphasizes that if Christ did not rise from the dead, then the faith of believers would be in vain. The preacher mentions that there are witnesses to the Christian faith, including the scriptures and the Holy Spirit. He also refers to the story of Lazarus being brought back to life by Jesus as an example of the power of God. The preacher encourages the congregation, especially the young people, to have an informed faith rather than blind faith.
Give Me This Mountain
By Esther Sutera70456:28VictoryDEU 5:3PSA 133:3MAT 17:1MAT 17:5In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the story of Caleb and Joshua from the Bible. He highlights how the majority of the spies sent to survey the promised land were fearful and negative, focusing on the giants, mountains, and walled cities. They lost sight of the goal and forgot that God was leading them. However, Caleb and Joshua maintained their faith and trust in God's promises. The speaker also warns against the dangers of sin, emphasizing how it can subtly lead us away from God little by little if we are not vigilant.
The Holy Spirit - Part 3
By Ken Baird66252:411KI 19:12PSA 119:11MAT 17:52TI 3:162PE 1:19In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of earning and experiencing the leading of the Holy Spirit. He encourages listeners to trust the Spirit's guidance and to pay attention to the impressions and uncertainties that the Spirit brings to their minds. The speaker also highlights the significance of Jesus being led by the Spirit into the wilderness after his baptism, showing that the Spirit's leading may not always result in a glorious experience. He emphasizes the power of the Word of God and the Spirit's role in revealing and teaching it to believers.
Keys for a Successful Family Life - Part 8
By Don Courville52653:20PRO 29:18ISA 6:8ISA 42:4AMO 3:7HAB 2:1MAT 17:5ACT 26:19EPH 4:18HEB 10:38JAS 4:8This sermon emphasizes the importance of going to the tower, symbolizing meeting with God in prayer and seeking His guidance. It highlights the story of Habakkuk standing upon his watchtower to hear from God, encouraging listeners to write down the vision God gives, run with it, and live by faith. The sermon stresses the need to avoid living loose, in a fog, without love, worship, or discouragement by consistently going to the tower to seek God's presence and direction.
Gospel Meetings s.h.c.- 03 Now Then Do It!
By Stan Ford41845:31DEU 17:14PSA 119:11MAT 4:17MAT 17:5MAT 28:19In this sermon, the preacher draws parallels between the story of David and Goliath and the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. He emphasizes the discipline and consistency of Jesus in facing poverty and temptation, refusing to use his power for self-gratification. The preacher also highlights the consequences of kings amassing wealth for themselves, using the example of a nation facing captivity due to a king's greed. The sermon concludes with the image of David facing the giant Goliath with only five smooth stones, symbolizing his determination to defeat evil.
Nine Characteristics of a Preacher
By Rolfe Barnard36155:08PreacherJON 1:2JON 3:2MAT 17:5MRK 1:15ACT 17:30ROM 10:9HEB 1:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of preaching for a verdict, rather than just going through the motions. He calls on preachers to be like John the Baptist, urging people to surrender in repentance and faith to God's Son. The preacher also highlights the urgency of preaching as if it were the last opportunity to reach dying men. He references the story of Jonah to illustrate the power of preaching that leads to repentance and revival. Overall, the sermon encourages young preachers to be God's preachers and to seek revival through the preaching of the Word of God.
Contrast Between What Has Been and What Will Be
By Paris Reidhead13238:40Christian LifeMAT 5:3MAT 5:20MAT 6:33MAT 7:21MAT 8:1MAT 16:5MAT 17:5In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the story of David and the Ark of the Covenant to emphasize the importance of following God's instructions. He highlights the need for obedience and surrender to God's will, rather than relying on human wisdom or the opinions of others. The speaker emphasizes the significance of listening to Jesus, as the Father has declared him to be his Son. He also discusses the Sermon on the Mount and the new kind of life that believers are called to live, emphasizing that true faith is demonstrated through actions, not just words.
Jesus, Transfigured & Disfigured
By Michael Flowers11424:20JesusEXO 34:33MAT 13:43MAT 17:5MRK 9:6LUK 9:312CO 3:12JAS 1:19In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of transfiguration and its significance in the Christian faith. He emphasizes the need for believers to have a vision of transfiguration, where Christ dwells within them as the hope of glory. The preacher also highlights the importance of the Holy Spirit in the process of transformation and encourages listeners to reflect on the glory of the Lord during the season of Lent. He reminds them that their destiny is to shine forth as the righteous in the kingdom of God. The sermon concludes with a call to serve and love others, sharing the love of Christ and offering hope to a disfigured world.
Compared View of the First Three Gospels, Etc.
By John Nelson Darby0The GospelsChrist's MinistryMAT 1:1MAT 4:17MAT 5:1MAT 9:35MAT 11:28MAT 28:19MRK 1:14LUK 3:23LUK 4:18John Nelson Darby discusses the distinct characteristics and purposes of the first three Gospels, emphasizing that Mark presents a chronological account of Christ's service, while Matthew focuses on the presentation of Jesus as the Messiah and the implications of His rejection. He notes that Luke, while generally following Mark's order, includes moral teachings that are unique to his Gospel. Darby highlights the importance of understanding the genealogies and the context of Christ's ministry, particularly in relation to Israel's expectations and the establishment of the church. He concludes that the Gospels collectively reveal the nature of Christ's mission and the unfolding of God's plan for humanity.
Rev. 1:7. the Great Advent
By A.B. Simpson0Readiness for His ReturnThe Second Coming of ChristPSA 96:11ZEC 12:10MAT 13:26MAT 17:5MAT 26:64LUK 9:34ACT 1:91TH 4:16REV 1:7REV 14:14A.B. Simpson emphasizes the certainty and urgency of Christ's return as depicted in Revelation 1:7, reminding the Church and the world that Jesus will come as Judge and King. He reflects on the hope that the early Church found in this promise, which sustained them through trials and persecution, contrasting it with the apathy of the modern Church and the world. Simpson warns that while the world may scoff and the Church may forget, the day of reckoning is approaching, and all will see Him, including those who pierced Him. He calls for readiness and vigilance, urging believers to hold fast to their faith and truth in anticipation of His glorious return. The sermon concludes with a passionate plea for the Church to awaken and prepare for the coming of the Lord.
2 Peter 1:17
By John Gill0Divine GloryThe Transfiguration of ChristEXO 40:35MAT 17:5JHN 12:282PE 1:17John Gill expounds on 2 Peter 1:17, emphasizing that Jesus received honor and glory from God the Father, not as an inferior but as the equal in glory. He explains that this honor was declarative, with God testifying to Jesus' divine nature during the Transfiguration, where a voice from the bright cloud affirmed Jesus as His beloved Son. Gill contrasts this event with other divine proclamations, highlighting its unique significance and the presence of God's glory. The sermon illustrates the profound relationship between the Father and the Son, affirming Jesus' divine authority and the importance of recognizing His glory.
A Moral Pronouncement
By A.W. Tozer0Moral ResponsibilityAuthority of ScriptureMAT 17:5HEB 1:1A.W. Tozer emphasizes that God's message to humanity today is centered on the authority of Jesus Christ, His beloved Son, urging people to listen to Him. He points out that the rejection of this message stems from a reluctance to submit to the moral authority of God's Word, which serves as the ultimate standard for morality and Christian ethics. Tozer highlights that throughout history, God has communicated through inspired individuals, yet many choose to ignore this divine guidance. He stresses the importance of understanding Scripture through the same Spirit that inspired it, ensuring a unified comprehension of God's message.
In the Beloved
By Martyn-Lloyd Jones0God's LoveIdentity in ChristMAT 3:17MAT 17:5JHN 3:16JHN 17:232CO 5:21GAL 4:4EPH 1:6COL 3:122TH 2:13HEB 1:3Martyn-Lloyd Jones emphasizes the profound significance of being 'in the beloved,' which refers to Jesus Christ as God's only begotten Son. He explains that our acceptance and privileges in salvation are rooted in our relationship with Christ, who embodies God's love and grace. The Apostle Paul’s deliberate use of 'the beloved' highlights the unique and eternal bond between the Father and the Son, and it serves as a measure of both God's and Christ's love for humanity. This relationship extends to believers, who are loved by God as He loves His Son, underscoring the depth of our salvation and the intimacy we share with the divine. Ultimately, the sermon calls us to recognize our identity as 'the beloved' of God, reflecting the extraordinary grace bestowed upon us through Christ.
The Coming Kingdom After His Suffering and Death
By John F. Walvoord0MAT 17:5John F. Walvoord delves into the Transfiguration, where Jesus reveals His divine glory to Peter, James, and John on a high mountain, accompanied by Moses and Elijah, signifying the fulfillment of the kingdom. The disciples witness Jesus' transfiguration, hear God's voice affirming Jesus as His Son, and are instructed to keep the vision secret until after His resurrection. Jesus later demonstrates the power of faith by healing a demon-possessed child, emphasizing the importance of unwavering belief. The sermon concludes with Jesus foretelling His death and resurrection, and a lesson on paying tribute, showcasing Jesus' authority over earthly matters.
The Visible and Glorious Manifestation of Jehovah Over the Earth and in the Earth
By Arno Clemens Gaebelein0EXO 13:21ISA 40:5HAB 2:14ZEC 14:5MAT 17:5ACT 1:11COL 3:42TH 2:1REV 19:11Arno Clemens Gaebelein preaches about the bright and wonderful prophecies of the visible and glorious manifestation of Jehovah, emphasizing the literal fulfillment of these promises as real assurances from God. The Divine person to be revealed is Jehovah-Jesus, the God-man, who will come in power and glory, fulfilling the Old Testament prophecies. Various Old Testament passages, such as Psalms, Isaiah, Ezekiel, and Zechariah, vividly describe the majestic appearance and power of Jehovah's manifestation, pointing to the future event of His return. The New Testament aligns with these prophecies, affirming the visible and glorious return of our Lord Jesus Christ in power and great glory.
- John Gill
- Tyndale
John Gill Bible Commentary
While he yet spake,.... That is, while Peter was proposing the above to Christ, before an answer could be given by him, and which was unworthy of one, another scene of things presents, and a full answer is returned him by a voice from the Father; directing him and his fellow disciples, to attend to Jesus only, and not to Moses and Elias; and behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them; that is, Jesus, Moses, and Elias; the two last of which were seen no more; and which cloud covered them, as the cloud of glory covered the Israelites in the wilderness: and which, as it ceased at the death of Moses, the first prophet; one like unto it appeared at the declaration of Christ, as the greater prophet, spoken of, and typified by Moses. The disciples at its first appearance were not under it, and overshadowed by it; for Luke adds, "and they feared as they entered into the cloud"; there was such a solemnity and glory in it, as struck their minds with awe and fear, as they gradually came into it, and under it. This cloud, which is said to be a "bright" one, was a symbol of the divine presence, and a token of the love, grace, and favour of God; and expressive of the brightness and clearness of the Gospel dispensation, in distinction from the obscurity of the legal one, signified by the thick, dark, and black cloud, God descended in on Mount Sinai, when he gave the law; and behold, a voice out of the cloud. The word "behold", is prefixed both to the cloud and to the voice out of it, which were both wonderful and surprising; and which voice came from heaven, and from the excellent glory, from God the Father in heaven: as says Peter, who was now present, Pe2 1:17. Which said, this is my beloved Son; not a servant, as Moses, Elias, and the rest of the prophets were: though as Mediator, and as considered in his office capacity, he was a servant; but in this clause, he is considered in his personal character and relation to the Father, as a divine person, who was the Son of God: not by creation, as angels and men are the sons of God; nor by adoption, as saints are; or on account of his miraculous incarnation, and resurrection from the dead; whereby indeed, he was manifested and declared to be the Son of God, which he was before; but on account of his natural relation to God, as his Father; he being the eternal, essential, and only begotten Son of God, in a way of filiation no creature is, and which, is ineffable by us. And as such he is dearly beloved of God his Father, being his image and the brightness of his glory; of the same nature and perfections with him, and equal to him. So he ever was, and will be, and that even in the meanest form and lowest condition, in which he has appeared: he was his beloved Son, when he was made flesh and dwelt among men, while submitting to ordinances, as to baptism, and obeying his Father's will, when covered with reproach, and full of sorrows; when he hung upon the cross, and laid down his life for his people; which he showed, by concealing nothing from him; by putting all things into his hands, and by appointing him the head of the church, the Saviour of the body, and the judge of quick and dead. In whom I am well pleased: Mark and Luke have not this clause, but Peter, who was present, and heard the words spoken, mentions it, Pe2 1:17 which confirms Matthew's relation. This regards, not so much the well pleasedness of God with the person of Christ, which is expressed in the former clause; but signifies that he was in him, as Mediator, well pleased with all his people; he was well pleased with his righteousness he was working out, whereby the law was magnified, and made honourable; and with the sacrifice he was about to offer up, which would be of a sweet smelling savour to him, his justice being entirely satisfied with it; and with all he did and suffered in human nature; which were things that always pleased the Father, being according to his will, his counsel and covenant: and so he graciously accepted of, and was infinitely well pleased with all his elect, as considered in him, and represented by him, on account of his righteousness, sacrifice, and satisfaction: hear ye him; as the former clause chiefly respects that part of his mediatorial office, the priestly, this regards his prophetic office principally, and also his kingly office; so that in this divine testimony, first his sonship is bore witness to, and then his several offices; which his sonship is the foundation of, and qualifies him to bear and execute. This clause has the very words which Moses delivered, when he spoke of the Messiah, the great prophet like unto himself, that should be raised up among the Jews; saying, "unto him ye shall hearken", Deu 18:15. So that these words, "hear ye him", most clearly point to Christ, as being this prophet, who is to be heard, and he only; not Moses, but he, the prophet Moses prophesied of; nor Elias, or any of the other prophets, but one greater than them all: hear and believe his prophecies, concerning his sufferings, death, and resurrection, lately delivered by him; listen to, and embrace his doctrines, as coming from God, and as having a divine impress upon them, and being confirmed by miraculous works; submit to his ordinances, and obey his commands, as king of saints; hear him always, and in all things.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
17:5 a bright cloud overshadowed them: Such an occurrence accompanied God’s presence among the ancient Israelites during Moses’ ministry (see Exod 24:15-18; 25:8; 29:45-46; 40:34-38). • my dearly loved Son: The Father was confirming what Peter had previously affirmed (Matt 16:16-17). • They should listen to him because Jesus is God’s Son, who, as a prophet, reveals God’s will (11:27; see Deut 18:15, 18; Acts 3:22-23; 7:37).