Matthew Chapter 17

Despite following Jesus for a couple of years, sometimes the disciples still failed to understand Jesus’ purpose for coming down to earth. Sometimes, they were also not mindful of what Jesus needed to accomplish. For example, regarding Jesus’ transfiguration which is recorded in Matthew 17:1-13. It would have been a precious opportunity for Peter, James and John to have witnessed Jesus transfigured before them and saw His face shone like the sun and His clothes became white as the light (v2). However, it was not Jesus’ intention to set up tabernacles for them to settle down on the high mountain just like Peter’s suggestion (v4). Perhaps by settling down on the tabernacles, Jesus could have fled the crowd for a while, Jesus could have rested for a while, or Jesus could have avoided the sufferings for a little while longer. However, that was not Jesus’ plans and He was also aware of the impending sufferings He was about to go through.

“…Likewise the Son of Man is also about to suffer at their hands”.
Matthew 17:12b

Other than Peter, the other two disciples also had their moments of not fully understanding Jesus’ purpose. On another occasion when Jesus also shared about the imminent betrayal He was about to face, James and John were actually more concerned about being able to sit on Jesus’ right and left hand (Mark 10:35-40; Matt 20:20-23). However, Jesus’ response was

“…but whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant”
Matthew 20:26b

Throughout His ministry, Jesus constantly showed care and served those in need. Even towards His last moment on earth, He still casted out demons and healed the epileptic boy brought to Him (Matt 17:15-18). At this time, Jesus also still needed to remind His disciples about their unbelief (v20) and perhaps their lack of prayers and fastings (v21). 

For us today, in what ways might we still misunderstand Jesus? In which aspects of our lives are we still not mindful of Jesus’ purpose for us?

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