Behold Our God

Greg Beale observes: “God has made humans to reflect him, but if they do not commit themselves to him, they will not reflect him but something else. . . . We either reflect the Creator or something in creation.” In other words, it’s in our nature to bear the image of something. If not God, then idols. If not the Creator, then the creation.

The Old Testament persistently shows us God’s people turning to idols and becoming like those idols. When Israel bows down to the golden calf at Mount Sinai, God calls them

Exodus 32:9 ESV

And the Lord said to Moses, “I have seen this people, and behold, it is a stiff-necked people.

), like a stubborn cow.

They had become like the idol they beheld.

When we worship false gods, we become like them. Our worship of money makes us greedy and stingy. Our worship of power makes us harsh and demanding. Our worship of approval makes us anxious and fearful. Our worship of success makes us busy and restless. The more we avert our gaze from the true God and chase these idols, the more ungodly we become. Do you see this in your own life? What false gods do you find yourself chasing? How do you see yourself becoming like them instead of like Christ?

The idea that we become like what we behold is not only true in terms of parenting, but in many different areas of life. The more we study someone, the more we listen to someone, the more we watch someone—whether it's in sports or entertainment or politics or work—the more we begin to emulate them.

Listen to Paul in

Platt, David. Exalting Jesus in Matthew (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) . B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

2 Corinthians 3:18 ESV

And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.

The more we behold Christ, the more we become like Him.

Platt, David. Exalting Jesus in Matthew (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) . B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

The more we fix our attention and our affection on Him, the more our lives begin to resemble His. We don't become divine like Jesus, but we do become like Him in the sense of being conformed to His character, love, and life. This is the process of sanctification; this is the Christian life.

Platt, David. Exalting Jesus in Matthew (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) . B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

Behold the divine glory of the Son. Moses (the Law) had reflected divine glory. Elijah (the Prophets) had proclaimed divine glory. Jesus (the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets) now reveals divine glory. He radiates the splendor of God. He unveils the presence of God. He embodies the pleasure of God. He speaks the Word of God. zHe is the prophet promised by Moses. The Father used Moses to deliver his people from slavery. The Father sent Jesus to deliver his people from sin. zHe is the messenger preceded by Elijah. John the Baptist’s ministry of restoration was accomplished through his suffering and death. Jesus’ ministry of redemption would be accomplished through his suffering and death. The cross of Christ must come before the crown of Christ. zBehold the patient power of the Son. Jesus endures our unbelief. Jesus meets our need. Jesus enables our ministry. zBehold the willing sacrifice of the Son. zBehold the certain victory of the Son. zBehold the humble authority of the Son. Jesus is greater than the temple, yet he still pays the tax. Jesus is sovereign over the sea, yet he graciously stoops for our salvation. How shall we respond? zLet us look to his worth. zLet us listen to his Word. zLet us live for his renown. Let’s proclaim the One we praise. Let’s embrace suffering as we follow our Savior. Let’s live as responsible citizens of this kingdom for the eventual coming of his kingdom. zLet us long for his return. “Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is. And everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure.”

As I read this passage I was reminded of an excerpt from Max Lucado’s book: It’s Not About Me. “The moon models our role. What does the moon do? She generates no light… Apart from the sun, the moon is nothing more than a pitch-black, pockmarked rock. But properly positioned, the moon beams… The moon reflects the greater light. And she’s happy to do so..! The moon is at peace in her place. And because she is, soft light touches a dark earth. What would happen if we accepted our place as Son reflectors?” Wouldn’t it be great if all believers were genuinely “Son reflectors?” We can be if we will walk in fellowship with the Lord. Let’s take a few moments this morning to discuss the observations in the text as we consider the thought: We will become what we behold.

We're going to see five different portraits of Jesus in this chapter. Unpacking the first portrait will require the most time, and then we'll move through the remaining four more quickly. First, we need to behold the divine glory of the Son. The word "transformed" in verse 2 is from the same word that Paul uses in to describe how we are "transformed" into the image of Christ. This word refers to a change of form. As we are transformed into the image of Christ, we begin to take on a new form. The life of Christ begins to transform the way we think, feel, believe, act, and worship. If that's what being transformed means for us, what then does it mean for Jesus to be transformed?

Jesus is on a mountain alongside two men of God from the Old Testament: Moses and Elijah. Recognizing the significance of Moses and Elijah helps us understand this passage. Moses represented the law of God, for God had met with His people in the book of Exodus to give them His law. Significantly, this giving of the law took place on a mountain, Mount Sinai. While everyone else among the Israelites had to stand back from the mountain in fear, it was Moses who met with God. Here is what Moses asked for and God's response in

Platt, David. Exalting Jesus in Matthew (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) . B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

2 Corinthians 3:18 ESV

And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.

Exodus 33:18–23 ESV

Moses said, “Please show me your glory.” And he said, “I will make all my goodness pass before you and will proclaim before you my name ‘The Lord.’ And I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will show mercy on whom I will show mercy. But,” he said, “you cannot see my face, for man shall not see me and live.” And the Lord said, “Behold, there is a place by me where you shall stand on the rock, and while my glory passes by I will put you in a cleft of the rock, and I will cover you with my hand until I have passed by. Then I will take away my hand, and you shall see my back, but my face shall not be seen.”

2 Corithians We must bear in mind Paul is speaking to the believer. In the verses leading up to this final statement in Chapter three, he has discussed how Moses’ face shone as he came down from Mount Sinai with the tables of stone recording the commandments of God. That was certainly a glorious event. Moses had communed with God, and by being in His presence, the face of Moses shone so brightly he had to put on a veil so the people could look upon him.

We must bear in mind Paul is speaking to the believer. In the verses leading up to this Paul has discussed how Moses’ face shone as he came down from Mount Sinai. Moses had communed with God, and by being in His presence, the face of Moses shone so brightly he covered it with a veil.

Platt, David. Exalting Jesus in Matthew (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) . B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

God kept His word, and in Moses was given an unprecedented glimpse of God. Here was the Lord's proclamation:

Exodus 34:6–7 ESV

The Lord passed before him and proclaimed, “The Lord, the Lord, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness, keeping steadfast love for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, but who will by no means clear the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children and the children’s children, to the third and the fourth generation.”

After seeing God and receiving the two tablets of stone containing the Ten Commandments, even Moses' physical appearance was affected. The text describes the scene as follows:

Exodus 34:29–33 ESV

When Moses came down from Mount Sinai, with the two tablets of the testimony in his hand as he came down from the mountain, Moses did not know that the skin of his face shone because he had been talking with God. Aaron and all the people of Israel saw Moses, and behold, the skin of his face shone, and they were afraid to come near him. But Moses called to them, and Aaron and all the leaders of the congregation returned to him, and Moses talked with them. Afterward all the people of Israel came near, and he commanded them all that the Lord had spoken with him in Mount Sinai. And when Moses had finished speaking with them, he put a veil over his face.

)

Platt, David. Exalting Jesus in Matthew (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) . B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

Paul uses the veil of Moses to represent the veil of separation between God and man in the Old Testament. God’s presence was only experienced by a select few. Moses experienced God’s presence so that he could bring to the people God’s Law, The Ten Commandments.

2 Corinthians 4:3 ESV

And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing.

The law was given to reveal God’s character and man’s nature, but it was never meant to save. The Law of God was intended to bring conviction but it could not convert. It shows us who we are but it cannot save us from who we are. The Law is a mirror not our Messiah.

Christ came to fulfill the Law and thereby remove the veil of separation. Yet, in Paul’s day and in ours are still behind the veil. They see a religious set of rules to follow but not a redeemer who seeks a relationship.

As the one God used to reveal His law, Moses had reflected divine glory. He literally beheld God, albeit in a veiled depiction (since, according to , no one can see God and live).

raise the Lord the veil of separation has been removed. We no longer depend on a high priest to make intercession for us. The saved have the glorious privilege of experiencing the glory of God through Christ our Savior! Every born again believer can enter the throne room of grace and take our petitions to our Mediator and Intercessor. This privilege is not reserved for a select few, but all the saved have direct access. We have been made partakers of the greater glory!

2 Corinthians 4:3 ESV

And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing.

2 Corinthians 4:3–4 ESV

And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.

Praise the Lord the veil of separation has been removed. We no longer depend on a high priest to make intercession for us. The saved have the glorious privilege of experiencing the glory of God through Christ our Savior! Every born again believer can enter the throne room of grace and take our petitions to our Mediator and Intercessor. This privilege is not reserved for a select few, but all the saved have direct access. We have been made partakers of the greater glory!

What are you beholding to for your salvation? What you are serving? Whatever “it” is that is what you believe will save you.

What are you beholding to for your salvation? What you are serving? Whatever it “is”that is what you believe will save you.

Elijah, the person on the other side of Jesus on the mountain, played a different role. While Moses had reflected divine glory, Elijah had proclaimed divine glory. The prophet's confrontation of the prophets of Baal in is perhaps the clearest example of this truth.

Christian, what are you beholding? Take a moment an evaluate your attitude and actions. What do they say you are beholding? Christ has torn down the veil of separation. We have unfettered access to God’s presences. Like Moses we can met with God and experience His glory as we read His Word and worship. This privilege is not reserved for a select few, but all the saved have direct access. We have been made partakers of the greater glory!

In Elijah challenged the prophets of Baal on another mountain—Mount Carmel. He proclaimed the glory of the one true God over Baal and other gods that were being worshiped by God's people. Elijah proclaimed God's glory, and God brought fire down from heaven. Then, in , Elijah fled for his life in fear of Jezebel. The story of his hiding out and of God's revelation to Him on Mount Horeb is given in verses 9-13. Elijah learned that God's glory is not only revealed in impressive displays of power, but also in less spectacular ways, even in a "soft whisper" (). More could be said about this passage, but suffice to say at this point that God had taken two men—Moses representing the law of God and Elijah representing the prophets—at strategic points to a mountain where He had shown them His glory. Their lives were changed in visible ways as a result. All this helps form the backdrop for .

2 Corinthians 3:18 ESV

And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.

As the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets, Jesus now reveals divine glory. For our purposes, that word "reveals" is key. Jesus was not merely reflecting or proclaiming divine glory; Jesus was the revelation of divine glory. To put it another way, Jesus doesn't just mirror or imitate the glory of God; Jesus is the glory of God. John, who was on that mountain with Jesus in , would later write,

John 1:14 ESV

And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.

The Old Testament believers did not have the privilege to approach God. Most of them lived and died without experiencing His glory in a real, personal way. As Christ died upon the cross, and rose again in victory, the veil was removed. We now have the privilege of a personal relationship with Christ. This has the idea of “standing face to face, looking directly at another.” The veil of mystery has been removed. We no longer see Jesus only through prophecies, types and pictures. We can enter the very presence of the Son of God, our Savior!

John also said of Jesus that He has "revealed" the Father (). We can, therefore, better understand why Peter's comment missed the mark in —he was putting Moses and Elijah on par with Jesus. God essentially told Peter to be quiet, for Jesus alone was to be the center of attention.

The Old Testament believers did not have the privilege to approach God. Most of them lived and died without experiencing His glory in a real, personal way. As Christ died upon the cross, and rose again in victory, the veil was removed. We now have the privilege of a personal relationship with Christ. This has the idea of “standing face to face, looking directly at another.” The veil of mystery has been removed. We no longer see Jesus only through prophecies, types and pictures. We can enter the very presence of the Son of God, our Savior!

Through Christ the Son, we experience the glory, brilliance, and splendor of God. The eternal God-Man has revealed His glory to us through our personal relationship with Him.

John 1:14 ESV

And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.

Jesus' appearance on the mountain to Peter, James, and John reveals God in a number of ways. He radiates the splendor of God. The text says that

Matthew 17:2 ESV

And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became white as light.

It's as if a curtain were pulled back so that the disciples could see Christ's glory in a greater way. In , Jesus spoke of the glory He had with the Father before the world existed, yet when He came to earth, the full manifestation of Christ's glory was veiled.

Philippians 2:7 ESV

but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men.

says that He "emptied Himself by assuming the form of a slave, taking on the likeness of men" (). We see Jesus' weakness and humiliation played out in the Gospel accounts, but during these couple of moments here on this mountainside in , we see His glory unveiled. To quote the author of Hebrews, the disciples saw the One who is "the radiance of God's glory and the exact expression of His nature" ().

– And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. Isn’t that amazing when we think of it? We have to opportunity to behold the glory of God through a relationship with Christ! He who came to earth robed in flesh, bearing our sin and shame upon the cross, made a way for us to be reconciled to God and experience His presence in a real way. – For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

We see Jesus' weakness and humiliation played out in the Gospel accounts, but during these couple of moments here on this mountainside in , we see His glory unveiled. To quote the author of Hebrews, the disciples saw the One who is

Hebrews 1:3 ESV

He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high,

).

Isn’t that amazing when we think of it? We have to opportunity to behold the glory of God through a relationship with Christ! He who came to earth robed in flesh, bearing our sin and shame upon the cross, made a way for us to be reconciled to God and experience His presence in a real way.

2 Corinthians 4:6 ESV

For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

– For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

Platt, David. Exalting Jesus in Matthew (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) . B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

– For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

You will reflect what you stare at.

Through Christ the Son, we experience the glory, brilliance, and splendor of God. The eternal God-Man has revealed His glory to us through our personal relationship with Him.

In Jesus' transfiguration, we also see that He unveils the presence of God. A bright cloud overshadowed the scene

Platt, David. Exalting Jesus in Matthew (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) . B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

Matthew 17:5 ESV

He was still speaking when, behold, 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.”

), which reminds us of the Old Testament imagery of God leading His people by His presence in a cloud. On a number of occasions, this was God's way of manifesting His presence: a cloud protected God's people as they left Egypt (), a cloud descended on Mount Sinai when Moses met with God to receive the law (, ), the cloud of glory enveloped the tabernacle when it was completed (), and the cloud appeared at the dedication of the temple ().

which reminds us of the Old Testament imagery of God leading His people by His presence in a cloud. On a number of occasions, this was God's way of manifesting His presence: a cloud protected God's people as they left Egypt (), a cloud descended on Mount Sinai when Moses met with God to receive the law (, ), the cloud of glory enveloped the tabernacle when it was completed (), and the cloud appeared at the dedication of the temple ().

Platt, David. Exalting Jesus in Matthew (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) . B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

John 1:14 ESV

And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.

– And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. Isn’t that amazing when we think of it? We have to opportunity to behold the glory of God through a relationship with Christ! He who came to earth robed in flesh, bearing our sin and shame upon the cross, made a way for us to be reconciled to God and experience His presence in a real way. – For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.  I also realized another important fact concerning the privilege we have. Paul spoke of our ability to behold the glory of the Lord, as in a glass. We see Him more clearly than the saints of old, seeing His glory in light of the Gospel, but this literally speaks of a mirror. We see Christ through the mirror of His Word. Much is revealed to mere mortals about the eternal God through the Word, but our comprehension and understanding is limited at best. There is no way we could ever fully comprehend the deity and glory of our Lord. We see a beautiful reflection in His Word, but He is beyond comprehension. Now we see through a glass darkly, but one day we shall behold Him face to face. We will one day stand in the very presence of our Lord in heaven, and we will be with Him throughout the endless ages!

Paul says now that we are in Christ, we don’t have to worry about not being able to shine God’s glory, because the veil is lifted. We can turn to Him again and look at Him because of Christ who had God turn His face away from Him. And as we look at Him, He progressively changes us, i.e. transforming our deformed image of God in us, so that our willing exposure to the sunlight of God’s presence will burn his image ever deeper into our character and will. And so much so, that we are not merely reflecting God’s image, WE ARE RADIATING IT! And the reverse of what happened to Moses will happen to us. It is an inside-out transformation! God transforms us more and more into His image, the image of Christ and one day we will physically be like Him!

Jesus' unique glory is also on display in this passage in that He embodies the pleasure of God. The Father's voice came from the cloud saying,

Platt, David. Exalting Jesus in Matthew (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) . B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

Matthew 17:5 ESV

He was still speaking when, behold, 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.”

Platt, David. Exalting Jesus in Matthew (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) . B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

The Father looks at the Son and cherishes what He sees.

Isn’t that amazing when we think of it? We have to opportunity to behold the glory of God through a relationship with Christ! He who came to earth robed in flesh, bearing our sin and shame upon the cross, made a way for us to be reconciled to God and experience His presence in a real way.

2 Corinthians 4:6 ESV

For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

1 John 3:2 ESV

Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is.

Jesus also reflects God's glory in that He speaks the Word of God. The Father adds one thing here to the words He had already declared in . He says, "Listen to Him!" (17:5). When you hear that, you can't help but think about Peter, the one who showed himself so quick to speak in the previous chapter and now again in this passage. It's as if God the Father were saying to Peter, "Be quiet. Listen to My Son. And when He speaks about the coming cross, listen to Him; do not rebuke Him." God's command to Peter picks up on Moses' prophecy of a coming prophet: "The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own brothers. You must listen to him" (; emphasis added).

For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

I also realized another important fact concerning the privilege we have. Paul spoke of our ability to behold the glory of the Lord, as in a glass. We see Him more clearly than the saints of old, seeing His glory in light of the Gospel, but this literally speaks of a mirror. We see Christ through the mirror of His Word. Much is revealed to mere mortals about the eternal God through the Word, but our comprehension and understanding is limited at best. There is no way we could ever fully comprehend the deity and glory of our Lord. We see a beautiful reflection in His Word, but He is beyond comprehension. Now we see through a glass darkly, but one day we shall behold Him face to face. We will one day stand in the very presence of our Lord in heaven, and we will be with Him throughout the endless ages!

prophet promised by Moses. Notice in verse 3 that Jesus had a conversation with Moses and Elijah, which naturally causes us to wonder, "What were they talking about?" Matthew doesn't tell us, but Luke's Gospel gives us a little more information: "Suddenly, two men were talking with Him—Moses and Elijah. They appeared in glory and were speaking of His death, which He was about to accomplish in Jerusalem" (). The conversation was about Jesus' departure in death—the word translated "death" is the Greek word from which we get the word "exodus." In the great exodus of the Old Testament, the Father used Moses to deliver His people from slavery. Now, as the culmination of His saving actions, the Father sent Jesus to deliver His people from sin. The greater and final exodus happened as the Son of God went to the cross to liberate His people from the slavery of sin.

Platt, David. Exalting Jesus in Matthew (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) . B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

I also realized another important fact concerning the privilege we have. Paul spoke of our ability to behold the glory of the Lord, as in a glass. We see Him more clearly than the saints of old, seeing His glory in light of the Gospel, but this literally speaks of a mirror. We see Christ through the mirror of His Word. Much is revealed to mere mortals about the eternal God through the Word, but our comprehension and understanding is limited at best. There is no way we could ever fully comprehend the deity and glory of our Lord. We see a beautiful reflection in His Word, but He is beyond comprehension. Now we see through a glass darkly, but one day we shall behold Him face to face. We will one day stand in the very presence of our Lord in heaven, and we will be with Him throughout the endless ages!

Matthew is pointing to Jesus as the One who fulfills this prophecy. He is the prophet promised by Moses. Notice in verse 3 that Jesus had a conversation with Moses and Elijah, which naturally causes us to wonder, "What were they talking about?" Matthew doesn't tell us, but Luke's Gospel gives us a little more information: "Suddenly, two men were talking with Him—Moses and Elijah. They appeared in glory and were speaking of His death, which He was about to accomplish in Jerusalem"

Luke 9:30–31 ESV

And behold, two men were talking with him, Moses and Elijah, who appeared in glory and spoke of his departure, which he was about to accomplish at Jerusalem.

). The conversation was about Jesus' departure in death—the word translated "death" is the Greek word from which we get the word "exodus."

The conversation was about Jesus' departure in death—the word translated "death" is the Greek word from which we get the word "exodus."

In the great exodus of the Old Testament, the Father used Moses to deliver His people from slavery.

Here Paul declares a revealing fact: the more we look upon Jesus our Lord, the more we resemble Him. As we walk with the Lord in daily fellowship, our lives are transformed more into His image. The word changed comes from the Greek word from which we get our word metamorphosis. It means “to transform, transfigure, change one's form.” We all remember studying metamorphosis in school. Once the caterpillar becomes a butterfly, it is completely changed, no longer resembling the form it once had, and will never return to the former state.  Every believer ought to have a desire to be transformed into the image of Christ. We have been saved from sin, lifted out of the miry clay and pardoned from condemnation. We will never go back to the condemned state we once held, but all believers do not resemble their Lord. I want to continually grow in His grace so that I resemble Him more each day! We are assured of the outcome if we spend time beholding the glory of Christ. If we take the time to study His Word and learn of Him, we will be more like Him. This is the natural process of transformation and the will of God for our lives. – For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. – Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. IV. The Reliance (18) – But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord. As I considered the magnitude of what we have discussed, I realized this is certainly a noble desire, but it is also a very difficult task. When we were saved the old man of sin died and we were resurrected a new creature in Christ, but we still dwell in a body of flesh that desires to please itself. The flesh desires that which is contrary to the spirit. The truth is we could never behold the Lord through His Word or resemble Him in our lives within ourselves. We would never grasp a convincing picture of Christ in the Word apart from the Spirit. We will never overcome the desires of the flesh in such a way that we can resemble Christ without the guidance and help of the Spirit. If we are to reveal the Lord through our lives, we must be enabled through the Spirit.  As we spend time in the Word and in communion with our Lord, the Spirit works in us to make us more like Christ. He chips away at the desires and tendencies of the old man and replaces them with the likeness of Christ. The closer we walk with the Lord, the more the Spirit works within us to transform us into the image of Christ.

2 Corinthians 3:18 ESV

And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.

Now, as the culmination of His saving actions, the Father sent Jesus to deliver His people from sin. The greater and final exodus happened as the Son of God went to the cross to liberate His people from the slavery of sin.

Here Paul declares a revealing fact: the more we look upon Jesus our Lord, the more we resemble Him. Being with God makes you look like God! As we walk with the Lord in daily fellowship, our lives are transformed more into His image. The word transformed comes from the Greek word from which we get our word metamorphosis. It means “to transfigure, to change one's form.” We all remember studying metamorphosis in school. Once the caterpillar becomes a butterfly, it is completely changed, no longer resembling the form it once had, and will never return to the former state.

Jesus is not only the prophet promised by Moses to speak God's word and deliver His people, but also He is the messenger preceded by Elijah. When Jesus and His disciples came down from the mountain, He commanded them,

Matthew 16:9 ESV

Do you not yet perceive? Do you not remember the five loaves for the five thousand, and how many baskets you gathered?

The disciples were confused in light of the prophecy that Elijah must come before the great Day of the Lord. But Jesus had already referred to John as "the Elijah who is to come" (), and here in verse 12 He reiterates that truth. John the Baptist fulfilled the following prophecies of Malachi:

Malachi 3:1 ESV

“Behold, I send my messenger, and he will prepare the way before me. And the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to his temple; and the messenger of the covenant in whom you delight, behold, he is coming, says the Lord of hosts.

Malachi 4:4–6 ESV

“Remember the law of my servant Moses, the statutes and rules that I commanded him at Horeb for all Israel. “Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the great and awesome day of the Lord comes. And he will turn the hearts of fathers to their children and the hearts of children to their fathers, lest I come and strike the land with a decree of utter destruction.”

According to Malachi, Elijah the prophet would come and prepare the way of the Lord. On one level, then, the disciples' question to Jesus could be chronological, i.e., "We just now saw Elijah; how come He didn't come before you?" Jesus answers that question in by pointing out that John the Baptist, the Elijah to come, had already come. But that simply leads to a deeper theological question: How is John the Elijah who would restore all things if John had been beheaded? John didn't usher in a great restoration, or so the disciples thought. Jesus had to help the disciples understand that the kingdom of God was not being ushered in the way they thought it would be. They expected a messianic forerunner and then a Messiah who would together usher in a kingdom on this earth marked by triumph and power. However, God's kingdom was coming in a very different way.

Platt, David. Exalting Jesus in Matthew (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) . B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

Every believer ought to have a desire to be transformed into the image of Christ. Though no believer fully resembles their Lord every believer fights daily to resemble Him more. Our struggle to resemble Christ is often frustrating because our pursuit is filled with failure. Christ knows our slothful advance in sanctification. Furthermore, he knows that we will never fully resemble Him in this life. Yet, He promises us that transformation will one be complete.

Platt, David. Exalting Jesus in Matthew (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) . B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

Romans 8:29 ESV

For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers.

1 John 3:2 ESV

Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is.

– For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. – Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

At sunset, a mother and her son sit in front of their cottage discussing the Great Stone Face. This wonder of nature looks down from one of the mountains bordering a valley with farms, villages, and cotton factories. The rock formation is massive, with a forehead more than a hundred feet high. Viewed up close, it is a chaos of gigantic rocks. Viewed from a distance, it becomes the face of a great god ready to speak thunder. Yet it is a noble, kindly face, suggesting it holds the valley in its affections. In fact, some people attribute the prosperity of the valley to the presence of the Great Stone Face.

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

At sunset, a mother and her son sit in front of their cottage discussing the Great Stone Face. This wonder of nature looks down from one of the mountains bordering a valley with farms, villages, and cotton factories. The rock formation is massive, with a forehead more than a hundred feet high. Viewed up close, it is a chaos of gigantic rocks. Viewed from a distance, it becomes the face of a great god ready to speak thunder. Yet it is a noble, kindly face, suggesting it holds the valley in its affections. In fact, some people attribute the prosperity of the valley to the presence of the Great Stone Face.

“Mother,” says the boy, Ernest, “I wish that it could speak, for it looks so very kindly that its voice must needs be pleasant. If I were to see a man with such a face, I should love him dearly."

His mother says that if an old prophecy comes true, they will see a man with such a face. Ernest asks her to tell him more about the prophecy. So his mother tells him what her mother told her about it when she was a child. It is an old story, one with which the Indians who once inhabited the valley heard from their ancestors. This prophecy says that a child born in the valley will one day become “the greatest and noblest personage of his time” and that his face will be the exact likeness of the Great Stone Face. Some people of the valley no longer believe in the prophecy, for they have never seen a person bearing any resemblance to the natural wonder. Nor have they heard of anyone from the valley with surpassing greatness and nobility. Others, however, continue to await the fulfillment of the prophecy.

Ernest says he hopes that he will live to see the great person. “Perhaps you may,” says the mother.

.......“Perhaps you may,” says the mother.

Ernest grew up as a quiet, thoughtful, intelligent child devoted to his mother. He performed many chores for her and worked hard in the fields under the hot sun. Although he had no teacher to nurture his intelligence, he spent many hours observing the Great Stone Face. With its benevolent countenance, it seemed to impart to him the importance of love.

Meanwhile, a rumor circulates saying that the prophecy has been fulfilled in a man who left the valley years before and became a shopkeeper in distant seaport. Having a good mind for business and blessed with good luck, he worked his way into ownership of a fleet of ships that brought him ivory, furs, precious gems, tea, spices, whale oil, and other commodities that earned him vast sums of money. His name is Gathergold, but the narrator is not sure whether that is his surname or a nickname.

After accumulating more money than he could count in a century, he decides to move back to his native valley. He sends ahead an architect to construct for him on the site of his father's old farmhouse an opulent marble dwelling with a portico and columns in the front. When the building is under construction, its magnificence leaves the people with the impression that the rumor must be true. After completion of the mansion, servants arrive to begin preparing for their famous master, who is expected in the evening. Some time later, while Ernest is outside gazing upon the valley, a carriage comes into view with an old man looking out the window. A woman beggar and two of her children stand near with their hands out. The old man drops copper coins down to them. When people awaiting his arrival see him, they shout that he is indeed the likeness of the Great Stone Face. But Ernest notices that Gathergold does not look at all like the mountain wonder. He looks up at it and it seems to say, “"He will come! Fear not, Ernest; the man will come!"

.......Meanwhile, a rumor circulates saying that the prophecy has been fulfilled in a man who left the valley years before and became a shopkeeper in distant seaport. Having a good mind for business and blessed with good luck, he worked his way into ownership of a fleet of ships that brought him ivory, furs, precious gems, tea, spices, whale oil, and other commodities that earned him vast sums of money. His name is Gathergold, but the narrator is not sure whether that is his surname or a nickname. .......After accumulating more money than he could count in a century, he decides to move back to his native valley. He sends ahead an architect to construct for him on the site of his father's old farmhouse an opulent marble dwelling with a portico and columns in the front. When the building is under construction, its magnificence leaves the people with the impression that the rumor must be true. After completion of the mansion, servants arrive to begin preparing for their famous master, who is expected in the evening. Some time later, while Ernest is outside gazing upon the valley, a carriage comes into view with an old man looking out the window. A woman beggar and two of her children stand near with their hands out. The old man drops copper coins down to them. When people awaiting his arrival see him, they shout that he is indeed the likeness of the Great Stone Face. But Ernest notices that Gathergold does not look at all like the mountain wonder. He looks up at it and it seems to say, “"He will come! Fear not, Ernest; the man will come!"

Years pass. Ernest is now a young adult. He works hard and is a good neighbor but is otherwise quite ordinary except for his habit of meditating on the Great Stone Face. The people of the valley are unaware that it “had become a teacher to him, and that the sentiment which was expressed in it would enlarge the young man's heart, and fill it with wider and deeper sympathies than other hearts,” the narrator says.

Meanwhile, Gathergold dies after losing all his wealth, and the people realize that his face did not resemble the one on the mountain after all. His marble mansion becomes a hotel for tourists visiting the valley to see the Great Stone Face. The attention of the people then shifts to another native of the valley—an aging war hero known as Old Blood and Thunder—who decides to return to the place of his birth. Childhood acquaintances of the general testify that in his youth his face was the very likeness of the Great Stone Face. On the day he arrives, the people welcome him at a public banquet in a field surrounded by trees except for an open space that allows a view of the Great Stone Face. After the general arrives, the Rev. Dr. Battleblast pronounces a blessing. Ernest is there to get a look at the general, but the crowd that gather around him block his view. He can hear comments, however.

" 'Tis the same face, to a hair!" says one man. Others make similar statements, and celebratory shouts resound. All of this fanfare makes the general think he must be the long-awaited one. When he stands to give a speech, his epaulets glittering, Ernest is able to see him. But Old Blood and Thunder's face does not resemble the great stone countenance in the distance. When Ernest looks at the Great Stone Face, it seems to say to him, "Fear not, Ernest; he will come."

Others make similar statements, and celebratory shouts resound. All of this fanfare makes the general think he must be the long-awaited one. When he stands to give a speech, his epaulets glittering, Ernest is able to see him. But Old Blood and Thunder's face does not resemble the great stone countenance in the distance. When Ernest looks at the Great Stone Face, it seems to say to him, "Fear not, Ernest; he will come." .......Many more years pass. Ernest is still the hard-working good neighbor he has always been—but more so. The narrator says,

Many more years pass. Ernest is still the hard-working good neighbor he has always been—but more so. The narrator says, Not a day passed by, that the world was not the better because this man, humble as he was, had lived. He never stepped aside from his own path, yet would always reach a blessing to his neighbor. Almost involuntarily too, he had become a preacher. The pure and high simplicity of his thought, which, as one of its manifestations, took shape in the good deeds that dropped silently from his hand, flowed also forth in speech. He uttered truths that wrought upon and moulded the lives of those who heard him. However, neither he nor his neighbors realize that he is no longer just an ordinary man.

Not a day passed by, that the world was not the better because this man, humble as he was, had lived. He never stepped aside from his own path, yet would always reach a blessing to his neighbor. Almost involuntarily too, he had become a preacher. The pure and high simplicity of his thought, which, as one of its manifestations, took shape in the good deeds that dropped silently from his hand, flowed also forth in speech. He uttered truths that wrought upon and moulded the lives of those who heard him.

The promised Elijah, John the Baptist, did in fact have a ministry of restoration. He announced that the kingdom of heaven was near and he called people to repent (). However, in the end, John the Baptist's ministry of restoration resulted in his suffering and death. John's death is what Jesus referred to when He said, "They did whatever they pleased to him" (v. 12). Such treatment was not only true of John; Jesus was also preparing the disciples for His own death. Jesus closes verse 12 by saying, "In the same way the Son of Man is going to suffer at their hands."

However, neither he nor his neighbors realize that he is no longer just an ordinary man. .

Meanwhile, his neighbors—having acknowledged that Old Blood and Thunder is not that man they work looking for—fix their attention on a prominent statesmen famous for his eloquent and convincing speeches. Whenever he speaks, people listen—and believe what he says. “His tongue, indeed, was a magic instrument: sometimes it rumbled like the thunder; sometimes it warbled like the sweetest music,” the narrator says.

This native of the valley speaks on weighty subjects before politicians, princes, potentates; all the world hails him as the greatest of orators. His backers call upon him to be a candidate for the presidency of his country. And, of course, the people of the valley say he is said to be the exact likeness of the Great Stone Face. When he decides to visit the place of his birth, horsemen carrying banners and all the other people of the valley go out to greet him, including Ernest.

When he approaches in a carriage, Ernest notices that he does bear a resemblance to the Great Stone Face. “But,” says the narrator,” the sublimity and stateliness, the grand expression of a divine sympathy, that illuminated the mountain visage” was missing. As Ernest turns his glance to the Great Stone Face, it seems to say, “"Lo, here I am, Ernest! I have waited longer than thou, and am not yet weary. Fear not; the man will come."

Time moves on and fashions Ernest into an old man with white hair and a wrinkled forehead. However, it is Ernest who now becomes famous; for the wisdom he learns from gazing at the Great Stone Face attracts people from distant places. “College professors, and even the active men of cities, came from far to see and converse with Ernest," the narrator says. ; for the report had gone abroad that this simple husbandman had ideas unlike those of other men, not gained from books, but of a higher tone." When these visitors leave the valley, they look up at the Great Stone Face and realize they have seen its likeness in a human but cannot remember where or who it was.

By and by, a great poet from the valley gains admiration far and wide for his magnificent verses. When Ernest comes into possession of a copy of his works, he begins reading them one day at the end of his workday. Taken with their beauty, he says to the Great Stone Face, "O majestic friend, "is not this man worthy to resemble thee?" he face appears to smile. It so happens that the poet has heard of Ernest as a man of great wisdom and desires to meet him. One day, he travels by train to the valley and, with carpetbag in hand, and asks Ernest whether he may lodge with him for the evening. Ernest welcomes him, although he is not aware of his identity. As they converse, it is not long before the poet realizes he has never met a man quite like Ernest. He has the sublime wisdom of angels. Their conversation rides into lofty planes that enthrall both of them. .......It Ts Ernest whether he may lodge with him for the evening. Ernest welcomes him, although he is not aware of his identity. As they converse, it is not long before the poet realizes he has never met a man quite like Ernest. He has the sublime wisdom of angels. Their conversation rides into lofty planes that enthrall both of them.

By and by, a great poet from the valley gains admiration far and wide for his magnificent verses. When Ernest comes into possession of a copy of his works, he begins reading them one day at the end of his workday. Taken with their beauty, he says to the Great Stone Face, "O majestic friend, "is not this man worthy to resemble thee?" he face appears to smile. It so happens that the poet has heard of Ernest as a man of great wisdom and desires to meet him. One day, he travels by train to the valley and, with carpetbag in hand, and asks Ernest whether he may lodge with him for the evening. Ernest welcomes him, although he is not aware of his identity. As they converse, it is not long before the poet realizes he has never met a man quite like Ernest. He has the sublime wisdom of angels. Their conversation rides into lofty planes that enthrall both of them. .......When Ernest asks him who he is, the poet points to the book of poems and identifies himself as the author. Ernest looks carefully at the poet, then at the Great Stone Face, but detects no resemblance. He is disappointed. When the poet asks why Ernest appears sad, Ernest tells him about the prophecy and says he thought the poet would fulfill it. The poet says he is not worthy of fulfilling it because he has not lived so exemplary a life as his poems seem to suggest. .......At sunset, Ernest and the poet walk to an open place where Ernest regularly addresses valley people. When his listeners are all assembled, he begins to speak. .......“It was not mere breath that this preacher uttered; they were the words of life, because a life of good deeds and holy love was melted into them," says the narrator. .......The poet, as he listened, felt that the being and character of Ernest were a nobler strain of poetry than he had ever written.” .......Ernest's talk deeply moves the poet. Then the poet notices that the mists around the Great Stone Face resemble the white hairs around Ernest's head. Moreover, he notices that the benevolent look on Ernest's face resembles the benevolence of the expression on the Great Stone Face. At that moment, he rises and says, “Behold! Behold! Ernest is himself the likeness of the Great Stone Face!" The other listeners say that the prophecy has at long last been fulfilled. While walking home with the poet, Ernest hopes that “some wiser and better man than himself would by and by appear, bearing a resemblance to the GREAT STONE FACE.”

By and by, a great poet from the valley gains admiration far and wide for his magnificent verses. When Ernest comes into possession of a copy of his works, he begins reading them one day at the end of his workday. Taken with their beauty, he says to the Great Stone Face, "O majestic friend, "is not this man worthy to resemble thee?" he face appears to smile. It so happens that the poet has heard of Ernest as a man of great wisdom and desires to meet him. One day, he travels by train to the valley and, with carpetbag in hand, and asks Ernest whether he may lodge with him for the evening. Ernest welcomes him, although he is not aware of his identity. As they converse, it is not long before the poet realizes he has never met a man quite like Ernest. He has the sublime wisdom of angels. Their conversation rides into lofty planes that enthrall both of them. When Ernest asks him who he is, the poet points to the book of poems and identifies himself as the author. Ernest looks carefully at the poet, then at the Great Stone Face, but detects no resemblance. He is disappointed. When the poet asks why Ernest appears sad, Ernest tells him about the prophecy and says he thought the poet would fulfill it. The poet says he is not worthy of fulfilling it because he has not lived so exemplary a life as his poems seem to suggest. At sunset, Ernest and the poet walk to an open place where Ernest regularly addresses valley people. When his listeners are all assembled, he begins to speak.

.......When Ernest asks him who he is, the poet points to the book of poems and identifies himself as the author. Ernest looks carefully at the poet, then at the Great Stone Face, but detects no resemblance. He is disappointed. When the poet asks why Ernest appears sad, Ernest tells him about the prophecy and says he thought the poet would fulfill it. The poet says he is not worthy of fulfilling it because he has not lived so exemplary a life as his poems seem to suggest. .......At sunset, Ernest and the poet walk to an open place where Ernest regularly addresses valley people. When his listeners are all assembled, he begins to speak. .......“It was not mere breath that this preacher uttered; they were the words of life, because a life of good deeds and holy love was melted into them," says the narrator. .......The poet, as he listened, felt that the being and character of Ernest were a nobler strain of poetry than he had ever written.” .......Ernest's talk deeply moves the poet. Then the poet notices that the mists around the Great Stone Face resemble the white hairs around Ernest's head. Moreover, he notices that the benevolent look on Ernest's face resembles the benevolence of the expression on the Great Stone Face. At that moment, he rises and says, “Behold! Behold! Ernest is himself the likeness of the Great Stone Face!" The other listeners say that the prophecy has at long last been fulfilled. While walking home with the poet, Ernest hopes that “some wiser and better man than himself would by and by appear, bearing a resemblance to the GREAT STONE FACE.”

“It was not mere breath that this preacher uttered; they were the words of life, because a life of good deeds and holy love was melted into them," says the narrator. The poet, as he listened, felt that the being and character of Ernest were a nobler strain of poetry than he had ever written.” Ernest's talk deeply moves the poet. Then the poet notices that the mists around the Great Stone Face resemble the white hairs around Ernest's head. Moreover, he notices that the benevolent look on Ernest's face resembles the benevolence of the expression on the Great Stone Face. At that moment, he rises and says, “Behold! Behold! Ernest is himself the likeness of the Great Stone Face!"

Platt, David. Exalting Jesus in Matthew (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) . B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

The disciples were being prepared for the reality that Jesus' ministry of redemption would be accomplished through His suffering and death. This is a key truth that keeps reappearing in Matthew's Gospel.

2 Corinthians 3:18 ESV

And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.

Platt, David. Exalting Jesus in Matthew (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) . B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

The disciples (along with many other Jews) wanted an immediate and glorious kingdom set up on this earth by the Messiah. That's one of the reasons Peter suggested putting up three tabernacles, for he saw that in Jesus the kingdom was dawning. But Jesus refused, for the cross of Christ must come before the crown of Christ. He instructed the disciples in verse 9 not to tell anyone about what they had seen. They were to wait until after Jesus' death (and resurrection), since there is no true glory apart from the cross. Suffering must precede splendor. This truth doesn't make sense to the world, but it is crucial if we are to see the divine glory of the Son.

This new desire to be like Christ, though divine, is difficult. When we were saved the old man of sin died and we were resurrected a new creature in Christ, but we still dwell in a body of flesh that desires to please itself. The flesh desires that which is contrary to the spirit. The truth is we can never behold the Lord through His Word or resemble Him in our lives within ourselves. We can never grasp a convincing picture of Christ in the Word apart from the Spirit. We can never overcome the desires of the flesh in such a way that we can resemble Christ without the guidance and help of the Spirit. If we are to reveal the Lord through our lives, we must be enabled through the Spirit.

So far we've seen the divine glory of the Son from a number of different angles. As we turn to verses 14-21, let us behold the patient power of the Son. Once Jesus and the three disciples come down from the mountain, the scene in shifts from one extreme to the other. It turns from the glory of God in Christ on a mountain to the pain and suffering of the world. We are seeing the God who stooped to become a man, the One who identified with us in our suffering in order to bring us salvation from sin.

In verse 14 Jesus was approached by a man whose son had epilepsy as a result of demon possession. The boy had seizures and would often fall into fire and water (v. 15). Suffering can be violent, and it reminds us of the tragic pain of living in a sinful world.

Jesus' disciples lacked the faith to do what Jesus had given them authority to do, namely, to deliver this epileptic boy from a destructive demon. In this portrait, we see that Jesus endures our unbelief. Keep in mind that this is the same Jesus whom we

As we stare at the scripture and the cross, the Spirit will work in us to make us more like Christ. He chips away at the desires and tendencies of the old man and replaces them with the likeness of Christ. The closer we walk with the Lord, the more the Spirit works within us to transform us into the image of Christ.

who stooped to become a man, the One who identified with us in our suffering in order to bring us salvation from sin. In verse 14 Jesus was approached by a man whose son had epilepsy as a result of demon possession. The boy had seizures and would often fall into fire and water (v. 15). I'm reminded of being in a Sudanese hospital and seeing a child with sleeping sickness, a disease that caused him to go into a trance at any moment, which meant falling over unconscious. This happened one time as the boy was sitting next to a fire, and he tragically had half of his body charred. Suffering can be violent, and it reminds us of the tragic pain of living in a sinful world. Jesus' disciples lacked the faith to do what Jesus had given them authority to do, namely, to deliver this epileptic boy from a destructive demon. In this portrait, we see that Jesus endures our unbelief. Keep in mind that this is the same Jesus whom we

Platt, David. Exalting Jesus in Matthew (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) . B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

Jesus' disciples lacked the faith to do what Jesus had given them authority to do, namely, to deliver this epileptic boy from a destructive demon. In this portrait, we see that Jesus endures our unbelief. Keep in mind that this is the same Jesus whom we just saw in His unveiled glory in the previous verse. The One who was with the Father in glory and who commanded myriads of angels is now confronted yet again with the unbelief of men, even His own disciples. In verse 17 we see Jesus' frustration with this failure of faith:

I’m amazed at those who profess Christ yet remain confused about God’s will or purpose for their life. Our purpose in this world is to resemble and reflect Christ.

Matthew 17:17 ESV

And Jesus answered, “O faithless and twisted generation, how long am I to be with you? How long am I to bear with you? Bring him here to me.”

The fact that He didn't immediately reject His disciples reminds us that God is patient. Christ was forbearing with people He encountered, and gratefully He treats us the same way.

Platt, David. Exalting Jesus in Matthew (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) . B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

1 Thessalonians 4:3 ESV

For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality;

Sanctification is the process which enables us to resemble and reflect Him more. Finally, listen to the words of Peter this morning . . .

1 Peter 2:9 ESV

But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.

Don’t you want to be a “Son reflector?” Don’t you want to reveal Jesus unto a world that desperately needs to see Him? Don’t you desire to become more like Jesus? I am amazed at such an opportunity, but it is possible if we will submit to the Lord and gaze upon Him.

What are looking to this morning for your salvation?

Not only does He endure our unbelief, but also Jesus meets our need. In verse 18 He healed this demon-possessed boy, instantly bringing him out of his misery. Jesus alone has the power to heal, to save, to deliver, and to meet the deepest needs of our lives.

Have you ever heard a couple, after years of marriage, described as being just alike? I have even heard some claim that certain couples even began to look alike after many years of marriage. I don’t know about that, but I have experienced couples who almost seemed to know what the other would say before they ever spoke. Clearly this comes from an intimate knowledge of that person. They have spent so much time together that they literally become one. We can have that relationship with Christ if we desire it. Wouldn’t it be great for people to think we look like our Lord? How does this world view you?

Platt, David. Exalting Jesus in Matthew (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) . B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

Isaiah 45:22 NKJV

“Look to Me, and be saved, All you ends of the earth! For I am God, and there is no other.

Following this healing, Jesus' disciples came to Him privately and asked why they couldn't drive the demon out (v. 19). This is where we learn that Jesus enables our ministry. We don't know all that was going on in the minds, hearts, and motives of these disciples as they failed to cast out this demon, something they had previously succeeded at by Christ's authority. But we do know from Mark's account of this story that Jesus told them,

Mark 9:29 ESV

And he said to them, “This kind cannot be driven out by anything but prayer.”

Platt, David. Exalting Jesus in Matthew (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) . B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

We will celebrate the Lord’s Supper in just a moment. This is a time for believers to reflect on what Christ has done in their lives. It is a reminder of His suffering and sacrificial atonement. Have you met Christ in salvation? If you have never been saved, the Lord’s Supper holds no significance for you, but it can if you will respond to Christ in faith. May we each search our hearts this morning prior to celebrating the Lord’s Supper.

Matthew 17:19–20 ESV

Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and said, “Why could we not cast it out?” He said to them, “Because of your little faith. For truly, I say to you, if you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you.”

Mark 9:29 ESV

And he said to them, “This kind cannot be driven out by anything but prayer.”

Mark 9:19–20 ESV

And he answered them, “O faithless generation, how long am I to be with you? How long am I to bear with you? Bring him to me.” And they brought the boy to him. And when the spirit saw him, immediately it convulsed the boy, and he fell on the ground and rolled about, foaming at the mouth.

The disciples had likely begun to look at their ministry as mechanical, being dependent on their own ability instead of on God. Jesus pointed them in a different direction: the way of trusting in His power. By telling them that their faith need only be the size of a mustard seed, Jesus was urging them to focus on the object of their faith. A little bit of faith in a great God can accomplish great things. Even mountains, Jesus says, will move. Nothing is impossible for the man or woman who trusts in the power of God to accomplish the will of God (v. 20).

Platt, David. Exalting Jesus in Matthew (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) . B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

What does your sanctification reflect and resemble this morning? The world or The Word? The cross or the Culture? The citizen of an earthly kingdom or one of an eternal kingdom? Where is your stare? Then there is where you are.

This is Jesus' second major behold in Matthew's Gospel is the willing sacrifice of the Son.

Platt, David. Exalting Jesus in Matthew (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) . B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

Matthew 17:21 ESV

Matthew 17:22 ESV

As they were gathering in Galilee, Jesus said to them, “The Son of Man is about to be delivered into the hands of men,

John Calvin said, "The nearer the time of His death, the more often Christ warned His disciples, lest that particular sorrow should undermine their faith." Jesus was preparing these 12 men for His certain and willing death. We may be accustomed to hearing of the cross, but consider Christ's death in light of the portrait we have just seen earlier in this chapter. No one can overpower this man! He is God in the flesh. Who can take Him on? If Jesus died chose to die at the hands of men. This was no accident. Sinful men killed Him, but only because He walked into their hands at the Father's bidding.

Platt, David. Exalting Jesus in Matthew (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) . B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

John Calvin said, "The nearer the time of His death, the more often Christ warned His disciples, lest that particular sorrow should undermine their faith." Jesus was preparing these 12 men for His certain and willing death. We may be accustomed to hearing of the cross, but consider Christ's death in light of the portrait we have just seen earlier in this chapter. No one can overpower this man! He is God in the flesh. Who can take Him on? If Jesus died chose to die at the hands of men. This was no accident. Sinful men killed Him, but only because He walked into their hands at the Father's bidding.

Christ's willing sacrifice leads us next to behold the certain victory of the Son.

Platt, David. Exalting Jesus in Matthew (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) . B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

Matthew 17:23 ESV

and they will kill him, and he will be raised on the third day.” And they were greatly distressed.

The disciples were having a hard enough time trying to grasp the fact that the Messiah would be killed by the Jewish leaders of the day; they had no concept at all of the reality of Jesus' impending resurrection. The same Jesus who was nailed to a cross would be raised in power and triumphant victory.

Platt, David. Exalting Jesus in Matthew (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) . B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

So far we've seen the divine glory of the Son, the patient power of the Son, the willing sacrifice of the Son, and the certain victory of the Son. Finally, we behold the humble authority of the Son. This story sets the stage for , where humility is a major theme. Interestingly, Matthew is the only Gospel writer who tells us this story, and it seems fitting given his former profession—a tax collector. Unlike most of the mentions of taxes and tax collectors elsewhere in the Gospels, the temple tax described in verse 24 was not a tax collected by the Roman government. Instead, the temple tax was collected by Jewish leaders for the service of the temple in Jerusalem. Based loosely on , the people of God were expected to help provide for the place that housed the glory of God. However, we've already seen Jesus claim to be greater than the temple (). He was the literal dwelling place of God, and we know that He had come to usher in an altogether new and glorious way of access to God, namely, through Himself.

When Jesus died on the cross, the curtain of the temple was torn in two (27:51). So why should He and His followers pay for the upkeep of the temple? In His conversation with Peter, Jesus used the analogy of kings who raise money from taxes, and He asked Peter whether such taxes came from the king's sons, or from strangers (17:25). Peter gave the obvious answer, "From strangers" (v. 26). The point of the analogy is clear: Since God is King, Jesus (His Son) is free from the obligation to pay the temple tax, along with all who are with Jesus in the family of faith. However, in order not to give offense, Jesus says to pay the tax. In other words, Jesus is greater than the temple, yet He still pays the tax. But why? Not because He is under obligation, but because He is working for others' salvation.

Platt, David. Exalting Jesus in Matthew (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) . B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

When Jesus died on the cross, the curtain of the temple was torn in two (27:51). So why should He and His followers pay for the upkeep of the temple? In His conversation with Peter, Jesus used the analogy of kings who raise money from taxes, and He asked Peter whether such taxes came from the king's sons, or from strangers (17:25). Peter gave the obvious answer, "From strangers" (v. 26). The point of the analogy is clear: Since God is King, Jesus (His Son) is free from the obligation to pay the temple tax, along with all who are with Jesus in the family of faith. However, in order not to give offense, Jesus says to pay the tax. In other words, Jesus is greater than the temple, yet He still pays the tax. But why? Not because He is under obligation, but because He is working for others' salvation.

Verse 27 records one of the more striking miracles in Jesus' ministry. He commanded Peter to go to the sea and pull up the first fish he caught, wherein he would find a coin to pay the tax. Consider what had to take place for this miracle to occur: Jesus ordained that somebody would drop a shekel into the water, that a fish would scoop it up in its mouth but not swallow it all the way, that that fish would swim over to the shore at the moment when Peter walked up, and as Peter cast out a hook, that he would catch that fish. All of that happened so that a temple tax could be paid in order not to bring unnecessary offense to people whom God desires to save from sin. Jesus is sovereign over the sea, yet He graciously stoops for our salvation.

Platt, David. Exalting Jesus in Matthew (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) . B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

First, as we consider Christ in this passage (and in the entire Gospel of Matthew), let us look to His worth. See His divine glory, His patient power, His willing sacrifice, His certain victory, and His humble authority. Then fall on your face in worship, just like the disciples (v. 6). Fix your attention and your affection on the Lord Jesus Christ and stop spending your life on the trivial and temporal. Let those things grow strangely dim in the light of God's glory and grace.

Platt, David. Exalting Jesus in Matthew (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) . B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

Second, let us listen to His Word. This point is made powerfully in , a passage where we get Peter's reflection on the events of :

2 Peter 1:16–21 ESV

For we did not follow cleverly devised myths 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, and the voice was borne to him by the Majestic Glory, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased,” we ourselves heard this very voice borne from heaven, for we were with him on the holy mountain. And we have the prophetic word more fully confirmed, to which you will do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts, knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone’s own interpretation. For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.

After reading of Jesus' transfiguration, we might be tempted to think that our lives would be dramatically different if only we could witness that kind of event or hear God's Word with that kind of certainty. However, we now have the New Testament, which contains the authoritative record of the transfiguration along with an explanation of its significance. We don't need any further confirmation, for we have all we need in Scripture. If you want to behold the glory of God in Christ on a daily basis, then read, study, meditate on, and memorize the Word of God. Then you will see His glory, and you will love it.

Platt, David. Exalting Jesus in Matthew (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) . B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

Third, we ought to respond to this text by having a new motivation for living: let us live for His renown. When you see the glory of God, you want to spread the gospel of God.

Platt, David. Exalting Jesus in Matthew (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) . B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

Therefore, let's proclaim the One we praise. Let's not see His glory and then be silent. Let's speak to people about the Christ we cherish.

Also, let's embrace suffering as we follow our Savior. Just as the cross preceded the crown for Jesus, so suffering in this life will precede our final reward in the next. After all, if Jesus suffered in the spread of God's kingdom, do we think that we will have it easy? Remember, no one can follow Jesus without taking up his or her cross (). We give away our possessions, we risk our reputations, and we go to the hard places knowing that our sufferings "are not worth comparing with the glory that is going to be revealed to us" (). We don't seek suffering, but we do seek Christ, and this will ensure at least some level of opposition in this world (; ).

In His teaching related to the temple tax, Jesus reminds us that although our reward is still future, we have responsibilities in the here and now. Therefore, let's live as responsible citizens of this kingdom for the eventual coming of His kingdom. We must be mindful of the salvation of others and our witness in the world. We pay our taxes, not because we agree with everything our government supports, but because we are under law (), and we want to live as responsible citizens in this earthly kingdom for the spread of Christ's heavenly kingdom.

Platt, David. Exalting Jesus in Matthew (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) . B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

Fourth and finally, let us long for His return. We should eagerly anticipate the day when our faith will be sight, when we will see Jesus as the Father sees Jesus, revealing the glory of God and radiating the splendor of God.

Revelation 22:4 ESV

They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads.

says of those who will enter God's eternal kingdom, "They will see His face." talks about the transforming effect of such a vision:

talks about the transforming effect of such a vision:

Platt, David. Exalting Jesus in Matthew (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) . B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

1 John 3:2–3 ESV

Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is. And everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure.

This is the Christian's hope. And as we behold Jesus, we will become like Him.

Platt, David. Exalting Jesus in Matthew (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) . B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.

Behold Our God

We will become like what we behold.

The Relationship

Moses (the Law) had reflected divine glory.

Elijah (the Prophets) had proclaimed divine glory.

Jesus (the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets) now reveals divine glory.

The Reflection

He radiates the splendor of God.

He unveils the presence of God.

He embodies the pleasure of God.

He speaks the Word of God.

He is the prophet promised by Moses.

The Resemblance

The Father used Moses to deliver his people from slavery.

The Father sent Jesus to deliver his people from sin.

He is the messenger preceded by Elijah.

John the Baptist’s ministry of restoration was accomplished through his suffering and death.

The Reliance

Jesus’ ministry of redemption would be accomplished through his suffering and death.

The cross of Christ must come before the crown of Christ.

Behold the patient power of the Son.

Jesus endures our unbelief.

Jesus meets our need.

Jesus enables our ministry.

Behold the willing sacrifice of the Son.

Behold the certain victory of the Son.

Behold the humble authority of the Son.

Jesus is greater than the temple, yet he still pays the tax.

Jesus is sovereign over the sea, yet he graciously stoops for our salvation.

How shall we respond?

Let us look to his worth.

Let us listen to his Word.

Let us live for his renown.

Let’s proclaim the One we praise.

Let’s embrace suffering as we follow our Savior.

Let’s live as responsible citizens of this kingdom for the eventual coming of his kingdom.

Let us long for his return.