“For we did not follow cleverly devised tales when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of His majesty. For when He received honor and glory from God the Father, such an utterance as this was made to Him by the Majestic Glory, “This is My beloved Son with whom I am well-pleased”— and we ourselves heard this utterance made from heaven when we were with Him on the holy mountain” 2 Peter 1:16-18.
The Transfiguration was a mysterious event. For a brief moment, the future “kingdom with power” (Mark 9:1) broke through into the present; of which Peter, James, and John witnessed firsthand. Undoubtedly, this remarkable experience had a lasting impact on Peter, as reflected in his words in the verses listed above. His resolute belief in the literal Second Coming of Jesus was largely established on the Transfiguration vision - to vividly see Him in this kingdom preview dispelled any doubts as to Him returning to take His rightful position as King of kings.
Our hope is based, not on “cleverly devised tales,” but rather the testimony of “eyewitnesses of His majesty.” As such, our hope and lifestyle is not based on philosophy, as with other religions, but upon that which is factual and established by those who were there. This is extremely significant; “we have the prophetic word made more sure” (verse 19). As the saying goes, “you can go to the bank” on this; it is absolutely certain.
Sometimes our hope may seem too good to be true. Amidst the dismal degenerative course of this evil age and world, and the reality of death, does our hope just simply give us a delusional lift from despair? Absolutely not! It is as well established as the testimony of Peter and others who were eyewitnesses to the risen Christ, the resurrection and the life (John 11:25-26).
If some doubt has crept in to your hope, allow Peter’s words and testimony to cast them out. We truly have “the prophetic word made more sure.”
©Steve Taylor, 2025--Used by permission
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