Transfiguration

Transfiguration of our Lord

February 18, 2007

Luke 9:28-36

Behold this man Jesus

Who is this man Jesus? Opinions circulate concerning his person to this day. As always there are varying opinions. At His transfiguration the Father speaks with authority and explains to us Jesus. Lent begins in just a few days with a powerful message - the Son of God dies. Is this too much for the world today?

Some will admit that Jesus is God but they look at His crucifixion as an unfortunate accident.

They see it as an unpleasant interruption

Just when everything was going nicely. A vulgar finale to a brilliant career. A heroic example of how to cling to one’s convictions. He died for principle.

Some will admit to the crucifixion but they deny its power.

They can only admit that the one hanging on the cruel cross is a mere man.

They will admit that he was an exceptional man, to be sure, but still just a man.

We preach Christ and Him crucified.

The crucifixion wasn’t an unfortunate accident. The Law and Prophets said that it had to happen. This is the conversation Moses and Elijah are having with the Savior on the mountain.

The crucifixion is more then an execution it’s a damnation! The wrath of an offended God is poured out on His own Son! (Isaiah “the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all)

The crucifixion was an essential part of God’s eternal plan for the salvation of the world. It does things for people – it saves them and makes them good!

Do death and deity go together? They must! The Son of God must die but in His death He rises to give us new life.