Luke 9:29
And as He was praying, the appearance of His face changed, and His clothes became radiantly white.
As He was praying
This phrase highlights the importance of prayer in the life of Jesus. The Greek word for "praying" is "προσευχόμενος" (proseuchomenos), which indicates a continuous action. Jesus often withdrew to pray, demonstrating His dependence on the Father and setting an example for believers. Prayer is a vital spiritual discipline, a means of communion with God, and a source of strength and guidance. In the context of Luke 9, Jesus is about to be transfigured, and His prayerful state underscores the divine nature of the event.

the appearance of His face
The transformation of Jesus' face signifies a profound change, reflecting His divine glory. The Greek word for "appearance" is "εἶδος" (eidos), which can mean form or outward appearance. This transformation is reminiscent of Moses' face shining after encountering God on Mount Sinai (Exodus 34:29-35), yet it surpasses it, as Jesus is the Son of God. This change in appearance serves as a revelation of His divine identity to the disciples, affirming His messianic mission.

was altered
The Greek word used here is "ἕτερον" (heteron), meaning different or other. This alteration is not merely a change in expression but a transformation into a glorified state. It signifies the breaking through of Jesus' divine nature, offering a glimpse of His heavenly glory. This moment foreshadows the resurrection and the ultimate glorification of Christ, providing hope and assurance of the future transformation awaiting believers.

and His clothes
The mention of Jesus' clothes emphasizes the totality of the transformation. In biblical times, clothing often symbolized one's status or role. The transformation of His garments signifies the holiness and purity of Christ. It also reflects the heavenly reality, as described in Revelation 7:9, where the saints are clothed in white robes. This transformation of clothing underscores the divine nature of the event and the purity of Jesus.

became radiantly white
The Greek word for "radiantly" is "ἐξαστράπτων" (exastraptōn), meaning to flash like lightning. This description conveys the brilliance and intensity of the transformation. The whiteness of His clothes symbolizes purity, holiness, and divine glory. This imagery is consistent with other biblical descriptions of heavenly beings and the glorified Christ (Revelation 1:14). The radiance serves as a visual representation of Jesus' divine nature and the glory of God shining through Him.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Jesus Christ
The central figure in this passage, Jesus is depicted in a moment of divine transformation, highlighting His divine nature and glory.

2. The Transfiguration
This event occurs on a mountain, traditionally identified as Mount Tabor, where Jesus is transfigured before His disciples, revealing His divine glory.

3. Peter, James, and John
These three disciples are present with Jesus during the Transfiguration, serving as witnesses to this miraculous event.

4. Moses and Elijah
Although not mentioned in this specific verse, they appear in the broader context of the Transfiguration, representing the Law and the Prophets, respectively.

5. The Mountain
The setting of the Transfiguration, symbolizing a place of divine revelation and encounter with God.
Teaching Points
The Power of Prayer
Jesus' transformation occurs while He is praying, underscoring the importance of prayer in experiencing God's presence and power.

Revelation of Divine Glory
The Transfiguration reveals Jesus' divine nature, encouraging believers to recognize and worship Him as the Son of God.

Witness to the Truth
The presence of Peter, James, and John as witnesses emphasizes the importance of sharing and testifying to the truth of Christ's glory.

Fulfillment of the Law and Prophets
The appearance of Moses and Elijah signifies that Jesus is the fulfillment of the Old Testament promises and prophecies.

Transformation in Christ
Just as Jesus was transformed, believers are called to be transformed into His likeness through the renewing of their minds.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the transformation of Jesus during prayer challenge or inspire your own prayer life?

2. In what ways does the Transfiguration affirm Jesus' identity as the Son of God, and how does this impact your faith?

3. How can the presence of Moses and Elijah during the Transfiguration deepen your understanding of the connection between the Old and New Testaments?

4. What does the Transfiguration teach us about the importance of witnessing and sharing our experiences of God's glory with others?

5. How can you apply the concept of transformation in Christ to your daily life, and what steps can you take to be more conformed to His image?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Exodus 34
Moses' face shines after speaking with God, paralleling Jesus' transformation and emphasizing the divine encounter.

Matthew 17 and Mark 9
These parallel accounts of the Transfiguration provide additional details and perspectives on the event.

2 Peter 1
Peter reflects on the Transfiguration, affirming its significance and his eyewitness testimony of Christ's majesty.

Revelation 1
The description of the glorified Christ in Revelation echoes the radiant appearance of Jesus during the Transfiguration.
Prayer and TransfigurationAlexander MaclarenLuke 9:29
The Saviour's Secret RevelationsR.M. Edgar Luke 9:18-36
A Bore the CloudW. M. Taylor, D. D.Luke 9:28-36
Arguments in Favour of Hermon as the Scene of the TransfigurationArchdeacon Farrar.Luke 9:28-36
Arguments in Favour of Tabor as the Scene of the TransfigurationVan Oosterzee.Luke 9:28-36
Christ's TransfigurationT. Manton, D. D., T. Goodrich.Luke 9:28-36
Christ's TransfigurationBishop Hacker.Luke 9:28-36
LessonsF. Jacox.Luke 9:28-36
Lessons from the TransfigurationH. M. Grout, D. D.Luke 9:28-36
Luminous HoursH. W. Beecher.Luke 9:28-36
Modern TransfigurationsLuke 9:28-36
Our Lord's TransfigurationW. B. Wright.Luke 9:28-36
The Beauty of Jesus ChristCanon Body.Luke 9:28-36
The Countenance as an IndexW. F. Crafts.Luke 9:28-36
The Irradiation of Our Lord's RaimentCanon Body.Luke 9:28-36
The Mountain Where the Transfiguration Took PlaceCanon Body.Luke 9:28-36
The Prayers of ChristB. Wilkinson, F. G. S.Luke 9:28-36
The Redeeming Majesty of the Son of GodA, J. Morris.Luke 9:28-36
The TransfigurationR. H. McKim, D. D.Luke 9:28-36
The TransfigurationStopford A, Brooke, M. A., D. Moore, M. A.Luke 9:28-36
The TransfigurationT. M. Herbert, M. A.Luke 9:28-36
The Transfiguration of ChristT. S. Evans, D. D.Luke 9:28-36
The Transfiguring LookE. H. Chapin, D. D.Luke 9:28-36
The Transforming Power of Communion with GodJohn Christian, D. D.Luke 9:28-36
Thoughts on the TransfigurationT. Binney.Luke 9:28-36
Transfiguration During PrayerBishop Hacker.Luke 9:28-36
We Must Climb If We Would See ChristBishop Hacket.Luke 9:28-36
Why a Mountain was Chosen for the TransfigurationBishop Hacket.Luke 9:28-36
People
Elias, Elijah, Herod, James, Jesus, John, Peter
Places
Bethsaida, Galilee, Jerusalem, Road to Jerusalem
Topics
Altered, Appearance, Bright, Change, Changed, Clothes, Clothing, Countenance, Dazzling, Different, Effulgent, Face, Fashion, Flash, Garment, Gleaming, Glistening, Glistering, Lightning, Pass, Prayed, Prayer, Praying, Radiant, Raiment, Shining, Sparkling, Underwent
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Luke 9:29

     2018   Christ, divinity
     2051   Christ, majesty of
     2063   Christ, perfection
     4834   light, natural
     4838   lightning
     5145   clothing
     5150   face

Luke 9:28-29

     2360   Christ, prayers of
     5113   Peter, disciple

Luke 9:28-32

     2024   Christ, glory of

Luke 9:28-36

     2580   Christ, transfiguration

Library
Self-Denial Versus Self-Assertion.
"If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.--LUKE ix. 23. We might naturally have thought that if there was one thing in the life of the LORD JESUS CHRIST which belonged to Him alone, it was His cross-bearing. To guard against so natural a mistake, the HOLY GHOST has taken care in gospel and in epistle to draw our special attention to the oneness of the believer with CHRIST in cross-bearing; and also to prevent misunderstanding as to the character
J. Hudson Taylor—A Ribband of Blue

January 30 Morning
Let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith.--HEB. 12:1,2. If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.--Whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.--Let us therefore cast off the works of darkness. Every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.
Anonymous—Daily Light on the Daily Path

September 1 Evening
If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.--LUKE 9:23. By honour and dishonour, by evil report and good report.--All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.--The offence of the cross. If I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ. If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye: but let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men's matters. Yet
Anonymous—Daily Light on the Daily Path

September 15 Evening
A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.--JAS. 1:8. No man, having put his hand to the plough and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God. He that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.--Let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive anything of the Lord.--What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe
Anonymous—Daily Light on the Daily Path

October 26 Evening
Take heed to your spirit.--MAL. 2:15. Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name; and we forbad him, because he followeth not with us. And Jesus said unto him, Forbid him not: for he that is not against us is for us. Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did? But he . . . rebuked them, and said, Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of. Eldad and Medad do prophesy in the camp. And Joshua the son of Nun . . . answered and said, My
Anonymous—Daily Light on the Daily Path

May 11. "Whosoever Will Save his Life Shall Lose It" (Luke ix. 24).
"Whosoever will save his life shall lose it" (Luke ix. 24). First and foremost Christ teaches resurrection and life. The power of Christianity is life. It brings us not merely law, duty, example, with high and holy teaching and admonition. It brings us the power to follow the higher ideal and the life that spontaneously does the things commanded. But it is not only life, but resurrection life. And it begins with a real crisis, a definite transaction, a point of time as clear as the morning dawn.
Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth

January 20. "Ye Know not what Manner of Spirit Ye are Of" (Luke ix. 55).
"Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of" (Luke ix. 55). Some one has said that the most spiritual people are the easiest to get along with. When one has a little of the Holy Ghost it is like "a little learning, a dangerous thing"; but a full baptism of the Holy Spirit, and a really disciplined, stablished and tested spiritual life, makes one simple, tender, tolerant, considerate of others, and like a little child. James and John, in their early zeal, wanted to call down fire from heaven on the
Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth

The Lord that Healeth Thee'
'He healed them that had need of healing.'--Luke ix. 11. Jesus was seeking a little quiet and rest for Himself and His followers. For that purpose He took one of the fishermen's boats to cross to the other side of the sea. But the crowd, inconsiderate and selfish, like all crowds, saw the course of the boat, and hurried, as they could easily do, on foot round the head of the lake, to be ready for Him wherever He might land. So when He touched the shore, there they all were, open-mouthed and mostly
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions Of Holy Scripture

Prayer and Transfiguration
'And as He prayed, the fashion of His countenance was altered.'--LUKE ix. 29. This Evangelist is especially careful to record the instances of our Lord's prayers. That is in accordance with the emphasis which he places on Christ's manhood. In this narrative of the Transfiguration it is to Luke that we owe our knowledge of the connection between our Lord's prayer and the radiance of His face. It may be a question how far such transfiguration was the constant accompaniment of our Lord's devotion. It
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions Of Holy Scripture

Christ Hastening to the Cross
'And it came to pass, when the time was come that He should be received up, He stedfastly set His face to go to Jerusalem.'--LUKE ix. 51. There are some difficulties, with which I need not trouble you here, as to bringing the section of this Gospel to which these words are the introduction, into its proper chronological place in relation to the narratives; but, putting these on one side for the present, there seems no doubt that the Evangelist's intention here is to represent the beginning of our
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions Of Holy Scripture

Bread from Heaven
'And the apostles, when they were returned, told Him all that they had done. And He took them, and went aside privately into a desert place belonging to the city, called Bethsaida. 11. And the people, when they knew it, followed Him; and He received them, and spake unto them of the kingdom of God, and healed them that had need of healing. 12. And when the day began to wear away, then came the twelve, and said unto Him, Send the multitude away, that they may go into the towns and country round about,
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions Of Holy Scripture

Christ's Cross and Ours
'And it came to pass, as He was alone praying, His disciples were with Him; and He asked them, saying, Whom say the people that I am I 19. They answering, said, John the Baptist; but some say, Elias; and others say, that one of the old prophets is risen again. 20. He said unto them, But whom say ye that I am? Peter answering, said, The Christ of God. 21. And He straitly charged them, and commanded them to tell no man that thing; 22. Saying, The Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions Of Holy Scripture

'In the Holy Mount'
'And, behold, there talked with Him two men, which were Moses and Elias: 31. Who appeared in glory, and spake of His decease which He should accomplish at Jerusalem.'--LUKE ix. 30, 31. The mysterious incident which is commonly called the Transfiguration contained three distinct portions, each having its own special significance and lesson. The first was that supernatural change in the face and garments of our Lord from which the whole incident derives its name. The second was the appearance by His
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions Of Holy Scripture

Following "Whithersoever"
One day as Jesus was passing along the highway, a man said to him, "I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest" (Luke 9: 57). This man no doubt was greatly impressed by the wonderful works and noble character of Christ. He thought that companionship with such a man would be full of blessing and richness. Just to see and hear would be worth any man's time and effort--to hear the gracious words that came from His lips would enrich mind and heart; to see the mighty works done would inspire. To him
Charles Wesley Naylor—Heart Talks

Gethsemane: the Strange, Lone Struggle. Matthew 26:36-46. Mark 14:32-42. Luke 22:39-46. Hebrews 5:7.
The Pathway in: messengers ahead--Jesus felt the cross drawing near--the look of His face, Luke 9:51-55.--His disciples afraid, Mark 10:32.--indignation against sin, John 11:33, 38. marginal reading American Revision.--the Greeks, John 12:20-28. The Climax of Suffering: the darkest shadow--why the struggle is strange--shock of extremes--His purpose in yielding--separation from the Father--Matthew 27:46. Mark 15:34 margin.--the superlative degree of suffering. Alone: a full evening, Matthew
S. D. Gordon—Quiet Talks about Jesus

On the Words of the Gospel, Luke ix. 57, Etc. , Where the Case of the Three Persons is Treated Of, of whom one Said, "I Will
1. Give ye ear to that which the Lord hath given me to speak on the lesson of the Gospel. For we have read, that the Lord Jesus acted differently, when one man offered himself to follow Him, and was disallowed; another did not dare this, and was aroused; a third put off, and was blamed. For the words, "Lord, I will follow Thee whithersoever Thou goest," [3246] what is so prompt, what so active, what so ready, and what so fitly disposed to so great a good, as this "following the Lord whithersoever
Saint Augustine—sermons on selected lessons of the new testament

Self-Denial
"And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me." Luke 9:23 1. It has been frequently imagined, that the direction here given related chiefly, if not wholly, to the Apostles; at least, to the Christians of the first ages, or those in a state of persecution. But this is a grievous mistake; For although our blessed Lord is here directing his discourse more immediately to his Apostles, and those other disciples who attended him
John Wesley—Sermons on Several Occasions

The Comer's Conflict with Satan
There are four points for our consideration this morning. That you may easily remember them I have made them alliterative: the devil's doings, designs, discovery, and defeat. I. First, THE DEVIL'S DOINGS. When this child came to Christ to be healed, the devil threw him down and tare him. Now this is an illustration of what Satan does with most, if not all sinners, when they come to Jesus to seek light and life through him; he throws them down and tears them. Allow me to point out how it is that the
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 2: 1856

The Broken Column
"Lord, I will follow thee: but--." How remarkably does Scripture prove to us that the mental characteristics of mankind are the same now as in the Saviour's day! We occasionally hear stories of old skeletons being dug up which are greater in stature than men of these times. Some credit the story, some do not, for there be many who maintain that the physical conformation of man is at this day just what it always was. Certainly, however, there can be no dispute whatever among observant men as to the
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 7: 1861

Heb. 4:14 Our Profession
"Seeing then that we have a great High Priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession."--Heb. 4:14. A CAREFUL reader of the Epistle to the Hebrews can hardly fail to observe that the words "let us" are found no less than four times in the fourth chapter. In the first verse you will read, "let us fear,"--in the eleventh verse, "let us labour,"--in the fourteenth verse, "let us hold fast,"--and in the sixteenth verse, "let us come boldly to the throne
John Charles Ryle—The Upper Room: Being a Few Truths for the Times

Self-Denial.
And he said unto all, If any man would come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. For whosoever would save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it.'--St. Luke ix. 23, 24. Christ is the way out, and the way in; the way from slavery, conscious or unconscious, into liberty; the way from the unhomeliness of things to the home we desire but do not know; the way from the stormy skirts of the Father's garments
George MacDonald—Unspoken Sermons

The Transfiguration.
"And it came to pass about eight days after these sayings, He took Peter and John and James and went up into the mountain to pray."--LUKE ix. 28-36. The public life or our Lord falls into two parts; and the incident here recorded is the turning point between them. In order that He might leave behind Him when He died a sure foundation for His Church, it was necessary that His intimate companions should at all events know that He was the Christ, and that the Christ must enter into glory by suffering
Marcus Dods—How to become like Christ

Alone with God.
This life of ours will never be all that it should be unless we are much alone with God. Only those who are oft alone with him know the benefit that is derived therefrom. You can not be like God unless you are much with him, and you can not live like him unless you are like him. The Scriptures tell us that Jesus departed into the mountain to be alone with the Father and that he was often "alone praying." When Jesus had anything of great importance to say to his disciples, he always took them aside
C. E. Orr—How to Live a Holy Life

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