Narrate the story of the Transfiguration as contained in the Synoptic Gospels.

Answer Details

The story of the Transfiguration (Matthew 17:1-13; Mark 9:2-13; Luke 9:28-36)

• About six days after Peter's confession (Luke says about eight days), Jesus took Peter, James and John, his brother, and led them up a high mountain apart to pray.
• As Jesus prayed, He was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun and His garments became dazzling white, whiter than any launderer could bleach them.
• Suddenly Moses and Elijah appeared and talked with Jesus. Luke adds that they spoke of His departure (exodus) which He was to accomplish at Jerusalem.
• Peter, not knowing what to say, for they were terrified, said, Lord, it is good that we are here; let us make three tabernacles, one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.
• While he was still speaking, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to Him.
• When the disciples heard the voice they fell on their faces, terrified. But Jesus came, touched them and said, Rise, and have no fear.
• When they lifted their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus only.
• As they came down the mountain, Jesus charged them to tell no one the vision until the Son of Man had risen from the dead. The disciples then asked why the scribes said Elijah must come first, and Jesus explained that Elijah had already come (referring to John the Baptist) and they had done to him as they pleased.