King James Version

What Does Matthew 17:3 Mean?

Matthew 17:3 in the King James Version says “And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him.” — study this verse from Matthew chapter 17 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him.”

Matthew 17:3 · KJV

Context

1

And after six days Jesus taketh Peter , James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart ,

2

And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light.

3

And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him.

4

Then answered Peter, and said unto Jesus, Lord, it is good for us to be here: if thou wilt, let us make here three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias.

5

While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Moses and Elijah's appearance with Jesus reveals His divine nature and mission's continuity with Old Testament revelation. Moses represents the Law, Elijah the Prophets—together they comprise Israel's Scripture, both testifying to Christ. Their conversation about Jesus' 'decease' (Luke 9:31, Greek 'exodos'—exodus) in Jerusalem shows the cross as the ultimate exodus, liberating from sin. Reformed theology sees the Transfiguration validating Christ's deity and showing Old Testament Scripture pointing to Him. The glorified Christ prefigures His resurrection body.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Moses and Elijah both had unusual departures from earth—Moses died with God burying him (Deuteronomy 34:5-6), Elijah was taken up in a whirlwind (2 Kings 2:11). Both encountered God on mountains (Moses at Sinai, Elijah at Horeb). Their appearance demonstrates that death hasn't destroyed them and points to resurrection hope. The Transfiguration occurs six days after Peter's confession, connecting Christ's identity with His coming glorification.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does the Old Testament testify to Jesus Christ?
  2. What does the Transfiguration reveal about Christ's true nature?
  3. How should Christ's coming glory affect your present discipleship?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 10 words
καὶ1 of 10

“And”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ἰδού,2 of 10

“behold”

G2400

used as imperative lo!

ὤφθησαν3 of 10

“there appeared”

G3700

to gaze (i.e., with wide-open eyes, as at something remarkable; and thus differing from g0991, which denotes simply voluntary observation; and from g1

αὐτοῦ4 of 10

“him”

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

Μωσῆς5 of 10

“Moses”

G3475

moseus, moses, or mouses (i.e., mosheh), the hebrew lawgiver

καὶ6 of 10

“And”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

Ἠλίας7 of 10

“Elias”

G2243

helias (i.e., elijah), an israelite

μετ'8 of 10

“with”

G3326

properly, denoting accompaniment; "amid" (local or causal); modified variously according to the case (genitive association, or accusative succession)

αὐτοῦ9 of 10

“him”

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

συλλαλοῦντες10 of 10

“talking”

G4814

to talk together, i.e., converse

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Matthew. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Matthew 17:3 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Matthew 17:3 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Mark 9:4Luke 24:44Malachi 4:52 Kings 2:11-14Luke 9:30-311 Kings 17:1

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